Sneak Fitness Into Your Routine

1. Start your day on the right foot 

Get off the bus or subway one stop before your usual. Just 10 minutes of brisk walking can help you organize your thoughts and help feel more energized as you start your day. Gradually add another stop or two to increase the distance. You’ll build stamina and start to crave that all-natural mind and body boost before the workday.

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2. Walk your happy hour

Meet friends for a walk instead of socializing over coffee, lunch or drinks. You’ll enjoy miles of good conversation, maybe some inspiring scenery, and feel extra proud to be doing something good for both of you.

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3. Use talking time for walking time

Unless you absolutely need to be plugged into your desk and in front of your computer, schedule phone meetings (and catch-up time with your friends) for when you can stand up and walk in place, stroll the hallways or, for a nice long gab with a friend, how about a cruise around the neighborhood deep in convo?

4. Go far for lunch

Instead of visiting your usual lunch spot right around the corner, set your sights on finding an interesting option a few blocks away. Stash an extra pair of walking shoes at work and, at lunch time, lace up and do your own lunch delivery. Or, better yet, brown-bag it and hotfoot your way to a local park for some mid-day R&R.

5. Pace the sidelines

If you’re taxiing your kids to sports practice, use the time you’re sidelined to walk the perimeter of the field. You won’t miss critical moments during your child’s big game, and you’ll squeeze in some healthy laps. Even better, enlist the other soccer parents to join in and start a mini-walking club.

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6. Stay ready 

Keep a pair of good walking shoes and comfy socks at the office so your feet look forward to a mid-day break from your desk as much as your mind and spirit will. Plus, you’ll avoid the afternoon slump. Studies show that increasing circulation boosts creativity and energy.

7. Play favorites 

Find the nicest bathroom, your favorite copy machine, the best water dispenser on different floors or corners of your workplace, and use those – instead of the ones nearest to you – every time you need to.