Housework Aerobics

No time to exercise? That excuse doesn't fly anymore! Your daily schedule includes a long list of chores, make them count!

What if all of those chores could count as exercise? Well that is my theory. Exercising to tone muscle and lose weight is basically burning the calories you take in through movement and tightening muscles right? If you were to exaggerate all of your daily movements, then you would be doing just this.

The very obvious way to use this technique is while cleaning. When you sweep, use your upper arms, feel the muscles tightening and encourage it. Hold the flex when you feel a certain muscle being used. Your abs will be used while sweeping. If you really want to you can do lunges as you sweep. Mopping is the same movement, so on those days you get a double workout!

Laundry is a great way to use your abs and upper thighs. I hate folding clothes and separating, blah blah blah, but I hate my thighs more! I squat as I get the clothes from the dryer and instead of bending at the waist to lift baskets i squat. Be sure to tighten and hold your abs in as you lift the baskets. Hold it as you carry them too.

Vacuuming is for your arms and legs. Lunge as you push the vacuum forward. When you pull the vacuum back, do it slow and use your upper arms to pull.

Put some music on while you dust and also while you cook. This will help you remember to dance. Dance as you do either of these chores and make it a habit. The kids enjoy this too. They get to join in or if they are like my oldest, laugh at you while you try out your best moves!

Picking up toys just comes with having a toddler. I squat as I get each toy off the floor. In fact a basic rule in this routine is to always squat, not bend, when you get the chance.

Another basic rule is to stand when you have a choice. When you are outside with the kids, stand. Put chairs out of sight if it helps you to remember. Stand at your desk or computer if you can. When ever you catch yourself sitting ask, could I stand for a little while longer?

Mowing the lawn (with a push mower) will typically burn 450 calories. This chore needs no help in becoming a part of any weight loss routine!

Your kids can be a great source of exercise. Make family time a game of chase or badminton outside. Go for a daily walk together. Your kids will appreciate the time together and often remind you, in case you cop out...I mean forget.

If you have a toddler, use them! Lay on your back on the floor and play airplane. Put the child on your feet and hold their hands. Use your legs to push them in circles and up and down. Instant workout! Put the child on your shoulders and do a round of squats. You could just hold them as you dance around to some music.

All of these ideas have been used by me for years. They work great and help to sneak exercise into my daily routine. You should always check with your doctor before starting a new routine to be sure you are fit enough to handle the new strain.