No Butts: The Importance of Moving Everyday

Reasons to move it can be too easy to find excuses for not exercising:  It’s cold. It’s dark. I’m tired. It’s raining. It’s late. I need to watch the kids. I feel a cold coming on....

In the same way your body needs food everyday - it needs movement and activity or else your butt will overwhelm your buts.

Your excuses can be overcome by being prepared, have more exercise options and create motivating factors.

​Look for reasons to exercise not excuses not to.

Here are just a few of the benefits of moving every day:

• Weight loss and maintenance. Moving helps you burn calories and build muscle, which can help you lose weight and keep it off.
• Reduced risk of chronic diseases. Moving can help reduce your risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.
• Improved mental health. Moving can help improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your self-esteem.
• Stronger bones and muscles. Moving helps strengthen your bones and muscles, which can help you stay active and independent as you age.
• Better sleep. Moving can help you sleep better at night.
• Increased energy levels. Moving can help you feel more energized throughout the day.​

So, what are you waiting for? Get moving! Even if it's just for a few minutes a day, every little bit counts.
Here are a few other tips for moving when you don't feel like it:

• Find an activity you enjoy. If you hate running, don't force yourself to do it. There are plenty of other ways to move, such as swimming, biking, dancing, or hiking.
• Set small goals. Don't try to do too much at once. Start with a goal of moving for just 10 minutes a day. Once you've made that a habit, you can gradually increase the amount of time you move.
• Find a workout buddy. Working out with a friend can help you stay motivated.
• Make it fun. Listen to music, watch a funny video, or read a book while you move.

Moving every day doesn't have to be hard. Just find something you enjoy and do it for a few minutes a day. You'll be glad you did.

6 "Cold Outside" Excuse Busters

1. ​Make sure you have appropriate cold and wet weather gear that you love and trust to keep you warm.
   
2. Play physical games with the kids.
   
3. Get a hoola hoop, skipping rope or treadmill for the winter/evenings.
   
4. Follow a YouTube exercise class.
   
5. Do chores vigorously as a multi-tasking workout.
6. ​If it’s a mood issue, throw on your favorite music and dance. It’ll give you exercise and improve your state of mind. You don’t even have to change clothes.