Exercise can help reduce the risk for many chronic conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and depression. It’s even been shown to help improve our ability to concentrate, learn, and maintain our brain power as we age.
Exercise doesn’t have to be complicated. Try these simple tips for getting a daily dose.
- Instead of driving around a parking lot trying to find a spot close to your destination, park far away and walk.
- Give up your car for a day. Walk or ride your bike to work.
- If you have a break during your day, invite a friend or co-worker for a short stroll or “walking meeting.”
- Take the stairs instead of the elevator.
- When you take your children to sports practice, lace up your walking shoes and take laps around the park or gym.
- In the evening, go for a stroll around your neighborhood.
If you’re looking for activities that can make exercise fun, consider these ideas.
- Attend one of Kaiser Permanente’s health classes.* Depending on your location, we offer classes in yoga, dance, and tai chi.
- Hike in a local park.
- Sign up for a charity walk or run in your community.
Walking is the easiest way to get started right away. Join our Every Body Walk! campaign. View videos featuring Kaiser Permanente experts, read walking tips, see walking maps, and get information promoting walking activities and resources. You can walk by yourself, or with friends or family, any time of year. Aim for 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week.