Get more bang for your buck this winter by bringing consciousness to your daily activities and/or workouts. Studies show that those that are body aware during exercise burn more calories then those that mindlessly jog on the treadmill.
Here is a short of list of things to be conscious of in your everyday mundane activities:
-We have all heard or read that taking the stairs instead of the elevator is a great way to burn extra calories. This is true but even more so if you pay attention to your posture and focus on activating your glutes as you take each step. The next time you walk stairs keep your torso upright trying not to lean over too far forward and drive through your heels on each step. This is a great rump lifter and helps keep low back pain away. If you want an extra burn, keep the same postural focus but take 2 steps at a time.
-Every time you park in a parking lot try and park as far away from the entrance as you can. Again....I am sure you have heard this before....but instead of strolling to the store front or your office try to power walk (get your arms pumping and heartrate up). Cardio bursts are a great stress reliever and quick calorie burners.
-If you are a tea or coffee drinker, when you wait for the water to boil or coffee to brew do standing squats until your drink of choice is ready. Move slowly with control as you lower your rear-end as far down towards the floor as possible and then drive through your feet on the return to standing. Get your heart rate up higher by raising your arms up as you squat down and then lowering them to your sides as you stand.
-After dinner (and before dessert) go for a 20 minute brisk walk. Try and find some hills to walk up and down. Walking hills in both directions is a great way of toning the legs and improving circulation. Focus on your stride and activating as many muscles in your legs as possible. Also, pull your navel in towards your spine to keep your torso upright and abs strong. This will boost your metabolic rate and may even make you pass on dessert all together!