Exercise

8 easy exercise swaps

You don't need a complete lifestyle change to get fit. Small steps every day can make a difference.

Written by Medibank
A mother does a virtual exercise class with her daughters in their living room.  Part of the regular routine or the new normal with social distancing and Covid-19.

Here are some easy ways to get moving:

1. Swap the couch for an exercise ball

Instead of lounging back while you watch TV, sit up on an exercise ball to stabilise your core and focus on your posture. You could even use the ad breaks to do a few simple abdominal exercises on the ball.

2. Swap the car for your bike

Put on your helmet and cycle to work or to the shops – it’s cheap, good for the environment and great for your mind and body. And besides… all the cool kids are doing it!

3. Swap a nap for a walk

Feeling tired? Getting out in the fresh air and working up a bit of a sweat will give you more energy to get through the rest of the day and refresh your mind.

4. Swap watching the kids play for playing with the kids

Get involved in the kids’ games. Running around with the little ones is a fun way to get your heart racing, and their energy and enthusiasm is contagious. Same goes for playing with pets!

5. Swap the lift for the stairs

You’ve heard it a million times – but how many of us actually do it? Walking up the stairs is an easy way to get your heart pumping, and maybe even tone your legs and glutes.

6. Swap Grand Theft Auto for Wii Fit

Get moving with a more active game and combine entertainment with light exercise. Even better if you play with a mate, or with the kids – a little friendly competition will get you working harder!

7. Swap a coffee date for a walk AND coffee date

Meet a friend for a walk around the lake, the park or along the beach with a takeaway coffee or tea. When you’re chatting away, getting active can be much more enjoyable and you don't even notice the time fly by!

8. Swap scrolling for shaking your tail feather

Plan a device-free night once a week, turn up the music and have a mid-week dance party in the comfort of your own home! Don't forget to join us on the last Wednesday of each month at 7pm AEST for a virtual dance class with the Sydney Dance Company on the Medibank Facebook page

Written by Medibank

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