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

Here are 8 fun, easy ways to inject some movement into your day.

Swap the couch for a stretch session

Instead of lounging back while you watch TV, take the opportunity to stretch into some yoga positions. Some of the health benefits of yoga include:
 

  • Improved blood circulation
  • Easing of muscle tension
  • Increased flexibility.

READ MORE: Beginner bedtime yoga routine

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. Regular cycling has been associated with health benefits including:
 

  • Improved joint mobility
  • Reduced stress levels, anxiety and depression
  • Stronger bones
  • Increased cardiovascular fitness.

And besides… all the cool kids are doing it!

Swap a nap for a walk

Feeling a bit sluggish? Getting out in the fresh air and taking a brisk walk can boost your energy levels by releasing endorphins and pumping oxygen throughout the body.

READ MORE: The health benefits of walking

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!

Swap a boardgame for backyard cricket

Get moving with a more active game. If it’s dark or rainy outside, try a motion-controlled sports video game.

Swap a cafe hang for a walking 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!

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! Dancing has been shown to:
 

  • Improve muscle tone and strength
  • Help with weight management
  • Improve balance and coordination
  • Strengthen bones
  • Improve general and psychological wellbeing.

READ MORE: 5 low impact exercises (that are actually fun)

Stretch your extras further.

With over 550 Members’ Choice Advantage physio provider practices Australia wide, our Members’ Choice Advantage physiotherapy network generally offers members greater value from their Extras cover, with capped fees to help reduce out-of-pocket expenses*~

Written by Medibank
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~Members' Choice providers are not available in all areas and may change without notice.

How we reviewed this article

This content was reviewed by a Medibank healthcare professional. Medibank has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies and information from Australian government and health peak bodies.