One Easy Way to Get More Exercise

Even though I write a lot about minimalism and simplicity, I still struggle with making time for some of my priorities. The one I have difficulty making time for the most is exercise.

I’ve struggled with my weight all my life. I’m drinking lots of water and eating better, but I still haven’t been exercising. My kids are young and wake up early and my job keeps me pretty busy. By the time I get home, spend some time with my family, and get ready for the next day I’m too tired to exercise. And, like some of you, I sit at a desk in front of a computer most of the day.

One night, as I was setting an alarm to remind me about an appointment the next day, I began to wonder if my alarm might be able to help me with my exercise problem.

I decided to set an alarm to go off each hour I was at work. When it chimes, I get up and walk a lap around our building.

This one simple habit has helped me to nearly triple my step count each day, which I track with an app on my phone. It’s also given me more energy, improved my mood, increased my creativity, and serves as a short respite from my work.

If you’re struggling to find time to exercise like I have this simple trick might help you too.

Set an alarm each hour on your smartphone to remind you to get up and walk. Walk a lap or two around the building you work in or your neighborhood. If it’s raining (like it did on the first couple of days I started this) walk the halls at work or up and down a flight of stairs a couple of times.

Humans weren’t made to sit all day. Research shows that sitting for long periods of time increases your chances of heart disease, obesity, and an early death.

I’ve still got a ways to go in the exercise department, but this little trick has been a big help to me. If you don’t have an exercise regime that’s working for you, start off by giving this a try. You’ll be glad you did.