Walking Extra Steps Exercise

It isn't always easy to fit a routine exercise program into your week, but there are a few easy ways to add extra steps throughout each day. With a few simple changes you can make a difference in how you feel by taking detours which require more footsteps than your normal fast-track routes. The idea is to get your body moving from here-to-there for longer periods of time.

• Park and Walk: Park you car at the back of the parking lot rather than circling the mall vying for the closest parking space.

• Get off the Bus Early: If you ride the bus to work on the way home get off the bus one or two stops early and walk the rest of the way home.

• Take the Stairs: Avoid the elevator at the office or for getting to your appointments. Instead, take the stairs to your destinations. If your destination is on the 20th floor, take the elevator to the 17th or 18th floor and take the stairway the rest of the way up.

• Use the Far Bathroom: This is good for the home bound person. Every time you need to visit the restroom go to the one farthest from wherever you are. If you are downstairs, head upstairs to the upper floor bath to do your business. If you are upstairs, go to the basement and use the bath off your utility room.

_{Noel Hendrickson / Getty Images}

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