Everyday Way to Get Moving!

Find out how everyday activities can jump-start your exercise routine.

It’s a common misconception that physical activity requires going to the gym, or buying expensive exercise equipment for your home. But the fact is there are many enjoyable everyday activities  from gardening to walking your dog  that can help you reach your fitness goals.

Karen Miller-Kovach, MS, RD, Chief Scientist at Weight Watchers International, says the amount of everyday activity recommended by Weight Watchers depends on your goals. The table below outlines Miller-Kovach's suggested duration of everyday activities done at a moderate intensity level with respect to an individual's goals.

And while you may be surprised that the recommendation is higher for keeping weight off than it is for losing weight, several research studies have found this to be true. Why? Most likely there are two reasons: People are willing to reduce food intake to a greater extent during active weight loss than for the long term, and once people "get into" activity and feel the benefits, they choose to do more.

It's important to remember that to have an impact, this activity should be done in addition to your usual routine on most days of the week.

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