Finding time for exercise isn’t easy for people with regular schedules. But, if you’re managing a household and family – whether or not you work outside of the home – finding a solid block of time for any activity can be nearly impossible. It may seem like an exercise regimen is out of the question, no matter how important it is to your health and well-being.

But exercise doesn’t only happen in a gym or in 90-minute blocks of time. Just adding 30 minutes of activity to your day can have a positive effect on your blood pressure, weight, mood and energy level. And if 30 minutes is too much to plan, break it up into 10-minute sessions to start. Tackle the project in little ways. Make the decision to add a little more movement to everything you do.

When you’re home:

• Have to go upstairs? Do it in double-time. Or try taking two steps at a time.
• Need to step outside? Don’t take the shortest path to your destination. Go the long way around.
• Exercise time can be a great way to have fun with the kids. Put on some music and have a 30-minute dance party.

When you go out:

• Forget that parking space closest to the mall. Park at the far end of the lot and walk.
• Have a choice between an elevator, escalator or the stairs? Take the stairs or walk up the escalator.
• When you pick the kids up from school, consider making the trip on foot. The activity and change of scenery will be good for all of you.

Getting more active isn’t always about a structured exercise plan. Sometimes, it just means changing the way you think about using your body. So push it a little bit, for yourself and for your family.

You’ll find more information on the benefits of exercise and tips for staying active right on this site.