You may have noticed that I prefer to use the word movement rather than exercise.
Here's why:
So many of us have preconceived ideas about what qualifies as exercise.
Location, intensity, duration... all kinds of ideas.
And often, it is exactly those ideas that keep us avoiding exercise.
I have had a few conversations this week where people told me they didn't exercise, but then went on to tell me about their activities that included movement.
They weren't giving themselves credit.
I have two clients that love to dance. REALLY DANCE!
And they dance regularly.
They weren't considering dancing part of their movement routine. (They are Now!).
Just because you do something for fun, doesn't mean it doesn't count as exercise!
AND… when something you enjoy includes movement…
BONUS: it is also a stress management tool because it brings you joy. Double points!!!
Activities like paddle boarding, hiking, riding a bicycle, walking your dog, horseback riding, skiing, practicing martial arts, swimming, and playing with your kids outside all count as movement.
Even the not so fun activities, like vacuuming, can count!
Take Action
Consider the activities you enjoy. Are you already doing things that include movement? Are you giving yourself credit for it?
If you aren't moving as much as you'd like, think about what you enjoy that, with this perspective, would count toward keeping you moving.
Start including that in your weekly routine.
It's that simple!