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Spring-cleaning: The Perfect Workout

 

Spring-cleaning: The Perfect Workout
FromHealth Expressions
Want to burn off a few extra calories? Pick up the broom and clean your way to better health.

It doesn't take an expensive gym membership to get a good workout. Cleaning is great exercise that can burn more than 200 calories an hour. Not bad for a little sprucing up this spring. Here are a few tips to help you get started and stay motivated. Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise routine.
Take the stairs.
Making the trip between floors is some of the best exercise around. Try switching between levels of your home as you complete small tasks rather than cleaning one level at a time. Vacuum the stairs to add weight lifting to the equation.

Listen to music.
Turn on some upbeat tunes to help you pick up the pace while you mop or scrub the bathroom. It makes for a better aerobic workout and lifts your spirits.

Set a timer.
If there's a task you dread, set your kitchen timer for 20 or 30 minutes and give yourself a break when the buzzer sounds. You'll keep your motivation up and get in a solid block of activity that's good for the heart.

Get creative.
You can increase the calorie-burning quotient of just about any cleaning chore by adding motion. Walk in place while you wash the windows or throw in some squats between dusting objects or rooms.

Venture outside.
There are a lot of high-calorie-burning activities right outside your front door. Everything from cleaning the gutters to gardening to mowing the lawn helps fight fat — and foster fitness.

Establish a routine.
Just like an aerobics class, you can create an exercise routine by doing a group of household tasks in rapid succession. Write down a brief list and try to go from one item to the next as quickly as possible.

Don't give up.
It doesn't take marathon running to make a positive impact. Even moderate exercise can help you live a longer, healthier life. Sweeping, laundry and painting the spare bedroom can all fit the bill.
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