Photo Source: http://tasteforlife.com Physical activity is important for our health and the health of the patients that we come in contact with every day, even if it is adding extra steps to the day. According to the American Heart Association, walking can lower the risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Here are a couple tips to add a few extra steps to your day.
- Take the Stairs. Walking up one flight of stairs can get your heart rate pumping and increase blood circulation. Taking the stairs can be surprisingly faster on a busy day.
- Park farther away. When the weather is pleasant, enjoy the extra sunshine.
- Walk to a coworker's desk instead of emailing or calling. Having face-to-face interaction with coworkers is always a personal bonus.
- Set up a standing desk. Set your computer on a cardboard box or a stack of books. You are more likely to walk if you are already standing.
- Walk while you are on the phone or waiting. Walking around the house for 30 minutes while talking on the phone can create a substantial increase in your step count. Take a lap around the kitchen while you wait for your food to cook.
- Walk to the water foundation. A mental break from the desk and hydration are an added bonus.
- Walk inside businesses rather than using the drive thru. Making the effort to walk inside a business will help add couple extra steps for the day.
- Challenge your friends. Track those steps. A friendly competition can always add a little fun to physical activity. Walk with friends to encourage each other to be more active.
