Small steps, big strides

Small steps, big strides 

We don’t believe in ‘resolutions’ at Active Life Podiatry. Setting a goal to be more active and healthy doesn’t have to be overwhelming.

It can be as simple as introducing a few small changes, such as adding more steps to your day, an exercise class or increasing your NEAT activity.

Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) is the energy expended for everything we do that is not sleeping, eating or sports-like exercise. It can help with health issues, weight loss and it ranges from the energy expended walking to work, housework, gardening, walking up stairs to playing with the kids.

Here are five ways to introduce exercise or NEAT activity into your daily routine.

Rise and shine stretch

Put a yoga mat next to your bed so as soon as you get out of bed, you’re on the mat. Then commit yourself to a few moments of gentle stretching and movement before you start the day. And if you’re feeling extra chirpy, try adding in some crunches, press ups or burpees *shudders*.

Try a walking meeting:

According to research, your best ideas often come in the shower or on a walk. In fact, walking can increase creativity by up to 60%. If your job allows, try your meetings on a walk either face to face or digitally, it will certainly change the pace of your meeting.

Running in a race

Why not join a running club or train for a race? There are some great local ones and you may even see one or two of the Active Life team! Here are a few local recommendations:

https://www.runuk.co.uk/e/putney-and-fulham-half-marathon-4046

https://runabc.co.uk/london

https://www.letsdothis.com/gb/e/battersea-park-half-marathon-march-189894

http://secondsunday5.com/the-race/

To get you kitted out with the best running shoes, our top recommendations:

https://www.runandbecome.com/london

https://upandrunning.co.uk/

Get fit with friends

On your next get together, try something active such as a dance class, tennis match or a leisurely stroll. It can be much more motivating doing it with a friend and it’s a great way to keep each other accountable. Having an accountability buddy drastically increases the chances of you achieving your goals, so pick wisely!

Park your car far away

…or better still, ditch the car and walk! But if that’s not practical or possible, park your car as far away as possible to get a few extra steps in. You can burn up to 16 calories for a five minute walk.

Small steps turn can turn into big strides.

And if you’re in pain, please don’t wait. We want to help you get back to your best self.