We all know that we should get more exercise, but when it’s time to lace up your shoes and go … You. Just. Don’t. Wanna, right? (And it’s still cold!)

Truth is, binge watching series in the comfort of your own home during lockdown was a great way to hunker down (can we all please agree not to feel bad about this?), yet couch-potato-ing is still a thing for many of us?

In her book The Willpower Instinct, Dr Kelly McGonigal calls exercise “the closest thing to a wonder drug that scientists have discovered.” We all know that working out is good for you, but a recent Swedish study found that low aerobic capacity was second only to smoking as a risk factor for premature death. Fact is, sitting is the new smoking, linked to heart disease, diabetes and even cancer.

Also, what you might not realise is that with every step you take, you’re enhancing your cognitive fitness as well. As bizarre as it may sound, researchers now claim that the same spin class that tones your butt, also builds up the muscle between your ears!

The World Health Organisation recommends that adults do two and a half hours of moderate exercise or 75 minutes of exercise each week. This is where couch potatoes may chuckle or scoff at the idea. Maybe a bit overzealous …? The good news is that exercise doesn’t necessarily mean running on a treadmill for hours. There is a bunch of different ways to stay healthy without actually realizing that you’re exercising. In fact, anything that elevates your heart rate will benefit your health.

Here are a few creative ways for couch potatoes to get moving:

• Crank up the music and boogie down. Bop around in your living room until you break a sweat. Pure fun!
• Stream a workout on YouTube or play interactive video games.
• Play backyard games with the kids. Invest in a trampoline. Fun and exhaustion guaranteed!
• Try Martial Arts. Whether it’s Kung Fu, Karate or Tae Kwon Do; there’s a martial art out there that will make you feel like a badass.
• You know … That thing couples do? Do more of that!
• Give Yoga a go. Build flexibility, strength, and learn how to relax.
• Take a dance class. Whether it’s the Tango, Zumba or the Flamenco; you’ll be sweaty in 10 minutes!
• Clean your home. Every time you vacuum, mop or scrub down your house, you’ll break a sweat.
• Take the dog for a brisk walk.
• Walk or run for charity. Give back to society by teaming up with your kids for a fund-raising race.

I know what you’re thinking: “This just seems like a lot of half-assing …” But truth is, small changes leads to big changes.

There’s probably no way to prove this, but I’m sure it’s true: Nobody on their death bed wished they’d spent more time watching TV!

So, do something, anything, just get started.

Source: gov.za, nytimes.com, medibank.com.au, heartfoundation.org.au, michaeldpollock.com, abundantmama.com, nhlbi.nih.gov, ministyhealth.org, nerdfitness.com, letsmove.gov, time.com, lifehack.org, parents.com, womenshealthmag.com, news24.com, news18.com, tbnewswatch.com, thecut.com, verywellfit.com, glamour.com, happygourmand.wordpress.com, rxwiki.com    

DISCLAIMER: The information on this website is for educational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are experiencing symptoms or need health advice, please consult a healthcare professional.