Tips for increasing physical activity

one

every little bit counts
fitting activity into a daily routine can be easy — take a 20-minute walk to the mall instead of driving. or take the stairs instead of the elevator. these choices don’t seem like much, but they can add up throughout the day.

two

make it a priority
whenever possible, try to schedule physical activities at least 10-30 minutes at a time; shorter bursts of activity will not have the same health benefits. for example, walking the dog for 10 minutes before and after school or adding a 10-minute walk at lunchtime can add to your weekly goal.

making physical activity a priority in your schedule will you make sure you get in at least 60 minutes total each day. you are in control of your own health and fitness, which means you get to choose what you want to do and how to make it a priority in your day.

three

mix things up
be willing to try new activities to find what you like the best, and to mix up activities to enjoy a variety of health benefits. if you start to get bored with an activity, mix it up to keep things interesting. swim, play with your dog, take a yoga class, go paintballing, mow the lawn, join a flash mob, play frisbee, go surfing, join a team, learn to hula hoop, or lift weights.

four

invite a friend
find a friend who wants to join you on a walk or in a class at the gym, ask your brother to play basketball or go for a bike ride, join a softball team at the park, or try out for a team at school. having someone to work out with can often make an activity more fun, and will make you less likely to skip out on it.

five

have fun!
choose activities that you enjoy, and you’re more likely to stick with them. whether it’s a team sport, rollerblading, kayaking, or jump-roping, just get out and get going!