Exercising is a crucial part of preventive care, which should be performed either moderately or vigorously approximately four hours a week to lower one’s risk of cancer and heart disease, among other conditions. However, many Americans are only finding time to do about 17 minutes per day. Since life is always going to be busy, the issue becomes about making time, rather than finding it. The guide below looks at some ways to incorporate more activity into your daily routine.

How the Average Person Can Get More Exercise

1. Ride a Bike to Work

If you live within a few miles of your workplace, biking to work can help you exercise without interfering with your schedule. Not only will this habit save you money on gas and parking costs, but a recent study shows that those that ride their bike to work are happier than those who drive. 

2. Walk Whenever You Can

Rather than using the elevator or escalator, take the stairs whenever possible. This simple act can help contribute to your goal of 10,000 steps a day to help maintain healthy bones, joints, and muscles. In addition, try getting up to ask your coworker your question in person, rather than emailing them—or taking a brisk walk during lunch. 15 minutes of walking per day is a preventive care measure that can reduce the risk of death in someone 60 or older by 22%. 

3. Take a Fun Exercise Class

A lot of the time, we prioritize activities where we know someone else is counting on us. By signing up for a class where our presence or lack thereof will be noticed, we imbue it with the same sense of responsibility we give our job, family, and friends. In addition, these classes are meant to be fun—a chance to learn new, interesting routines and interact with those who have the same goals—further boosting your chances of success.

 

Looking for more ways to develop a healthy lifestyle? Talk to the doctors at Santiam Hospital in Stayton, OR, for preventive care advice. While they do offer emergency services, their primary care clinics are staffed by medical professionals whose goal is to prevent health problems before they start. Not only can they develop a personalized plan based on your unique family history and health needs, but they can monitor your progress using state-of-the-art technology. To learn more about their offerings, visit their website, or call (503) 769-2175 to schedule a preventive care appointment.