Pregnancy Articles

Think "Fit" Not "Fast"

Modern Inconveniences

You stare at your to-do list with dread: Unload the dishwasher, return the library books, do the laundry, pick up dinner, drop the kids off at the mall, go to the gym?and that's just the beginning. The list seems endless and unfortunately, your time is not.

The good news is that one simple change has the ability to shorten your list, save you money, improve your health, bring your family closer together, and conserve resources-all at the same time!

Instead of using modern technology to do things the fast way, try doing things the fit way. By shunning modern conveniences in favor of the old-fashioned methods, you'll find endless calorie-burning potential! While the fast way may seem more efficient, think of the fit way as a way to combine your goals. In essence, you'll be getting more things done at once, so you'll check off that to-do list with ease. If you're so used to the fast way that you've forgotten that there IS another way, start with these alternatives.

**Be sure to get clearance from your doctor before resuming these activities, or any exercise program after giving birth.

Fast Way: Drive through the car wash.
Fit Way: Wash your car with a sponge and a bucket of suds.
In just 30 minutes, you can make your car sparkle and burn about 140 calories too. If you want to get your kids involved, bring out some extra sponges and let them scrub and rinse with you. There's no guarantee anyone will stay dry, but the chances are good that you'll have fun. If you don't have a place to wash your car (not everyone has a driveway), there are lots of do-it-yourself coin carwashes that will do the trick.

Fast Way: Drive to the supermarket, cleaners, or video store.

Fit Way: Walk, jog, or ride your bike to your destination.
If you only have a few things to pick up or drop off, take a backpack and use non-polluting "people power" to get there. You'll burn calories, get a workout while running errands, and reduce fuel expenses and wear and tear on your car.

Fast Way: Pick up dinner at the local carry-out.

Fit Way: Cook dinner yourself.
In just 15-45 minutes you can whip up an amazing dinner with lots of healthy veggies and whole grains, and you can burn at least 126 calories while you're at it. If you have kids, get them involved. They're great at measuring, mixing, and setting the table-plus learning how to cook wholesome foods will set them up for a lifetime of healthy eating habits.
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About The Author

Liza Barnes
Liza received her bachelor's degree in health promotion and education from the University of Cincinnati and is pursuing a master's degree in nurse midwifery. She is the proud mother of one daughter.
Liza Barnes Rothfuss

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