With planning and a little creativity, even the busiest people can fit physical activity into their schedule. Here are some easy ideas that build physical activity into your daily routine:

Commuting

• Walk, bicycle, jog or blade to work, school, the store, the library or your place of worship.
• Park the car farther away from your destination.
• Get on or off the bus several blocks away.

At Work

• Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator.
• Take quick, brisk walking breaks or desk exercise breaks throughout the day.
• Attend exercise classes before or after work.
• Keep a pair of comfortable walking or running shoes in your car or office.
• Set up a walking schedule with co-workers.

At Home

• Walk and play actively with children or pets.
• Exercise while watching television (march, jump rope, stationary bike, treadmill or stair climber).
• Set up a walking schedule with neighbors or family members.

Chores/Errands

• Use your errands as a time to bike or walk.
• Go into stores and restaurants rather than using drive-up services (dry cleaning, coffee, ATMs, restaurants).Wash and wax your car instead of driving through a car wash.
• Avoid labor saving devices like a self-propelled lawnmower or snow blower.
• Mow the lawn, shovel the snow and/or clean your house yourself instead of hiring it out.
• Work up a sweat while cleaning the house - move more and faster.
• Pick your own fruit when available (blueberries, strawberries, cherries, apples, etc.).

Recreation

• Instead of using a golf cart, walk your nine or 18 holes of golf.
• Walk to a park or playground with the kids instead of driving.
• Wear a pedometer and increase your steps daily. Work your way up to 10,000 steps a day.