BY KARLY BENDER
FITNESS
Household chores count! Physical activity around the house adds up to a daily workout
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o time for the gym because of all your household chores? If the answer is yes, I have good news for you! All those daily activities and chores around the house are considered physical activity and contribute to your overall health. Staying active around the house can reduce the risk for Type 2 Diabetes, metabolic syndrome and Cardiovascular Disease, and improve mental health and mood. Physical activity includes any movement of the body, such as traditional gym exercises as well as lawn work, laundry, vacuuming, taking the stairs, and many others. The American College of Sports Medicine has created a guide called the MET Compendium, which estimates the energy output of some of these daily chores. It shows the importance of incorporating physical activity throughout
the day and into one’s daily life. Getting into the habit of parking farther away, taking the stairs, and being mindful during chores can positively impact your health. Being mindful during chores can prevent injuries. For instance, picking up large and full laundry baskets can also be hard on the body. By using good posture, squatting down and then picking up the laundry basket can help prevent
back injuries and double as a weighted squat. Additionally, it is possible to make chores a home workout. For example, you could add sets of squats and pushups in between dusting or sweeping and take breaks during weeding to focus on stretching and posture. Life can throw curve balls at your daily routine and make it hard to get to the gym. Instead of stressing out and feeling guilty look for ways to stay active throughout the day. Physical activity does not have to be traditional gym exercise, all you need to do is be mindful and move. Karly Bender is a CSCS Certified Personal Trainer at the University Club of MSU. She can be contacted at (517) 353.5113
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