Myth vs Fact: Is it true reducing sedentary activities can help you lose weight? Well, this is both a myth and a fact. Read below to find out more!
How it’s a Fact: Any effort to get up and move leads to more calories burned. So yes, getting up and moving more with daily activities can help kickstart your weight loss goals!
How it’s a Myth: You may see some initial weight loss by getting up and simply moving more throughout the day. However, over time, this likely will not be enough, especially if you are working towards significant weight loss goals.
So the gold star answer is to do both! Make efforts to get up every day with normal activities and also participate in a regular exercise regimen to achieve your desired health goals. Besides helping with weight management, reducing the amount of time spent being sedentary helps maintain lean muscle mass, which is needed for our strength and our immune system. Moving more also helps prevent injuries, and reduces muscle soreness and joint paint. Lastly, moving more reduces other undesirable behaviors such as excessive snacking and excessive napping (which can affect your nighttime sleeping habits).
Need help getting started? Try these ideas!
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Stand or walk in your living room while talking on the phone.
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Every time you get up to go to the bathroom, take a lap around your living room.
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Before you sit down to eat, do 10 squats.
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March in place as you brush your teeth.
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Wear a pedometer and set alarms to remind you to get up and move.