Too Much Sitting May Increase Your Risk of Chronic Disease …

Too Much Sitting May Increase Your Risk of Chronic Disease …
and Premature Death
by www.SixWise.com

http://www.sixwise.com/Newsletters/2009/June/06/Too-Much-Sitting-Increases-Risk-of-Chronic-Disease.htm?source=nl

These days you likely hear a lot about sedentary lifestyles, and how this inactivity can lead to obesity and all of its related problems. But what you may not realize is that the word “sedentary” comes from the Latin word “sedere,” which means “to sit.”

Being sedentary could actually be described as any behavior during which energy expenditure is low, which always applies to prolonged periods of sitting at home, at work, during your commute and even during your leisure time.

Now, as with all sedentary activities, the evidence is increasing that shows sitting is, in fact, a risk factor for not only chronic disease but also premature death … a worrying finding considering how long the average American spends sitting each day.

Just how long is it?

Well, American adults spend an average of more than eight hours each day in front of screens, including televisions, computer monitors, cell phones and others, according to a Video Consumer Mapping study.

To read the full article: http://www.sixwise.com/Newsletters/2009/June/06/Too-Much-Sitting-Increases-Risk-of-Chronic-Disease.htm?source=nl

Frugal Exercise - Cheap Ways to Get in Shape and Stay in Shape

Frugal Exercise
Cheap Ways to Get in Shape and Stay in Shape
By Erin Huffstetler, About.com

http://frugalliving.about.com/od/beautyhealthcare/tp/Frugal_Exercise.htm?nl=1

Have you resolved to make this the year that you get in shape? Then, check out these frugal exercise ideas:

1. Use Self Check-Out at Stores
Using self check-out is often faster than waiting on a cashier, and it's better for you too. Scan and bag your own groceries, and you'll squeeze more exercise into your day.

2. Check Out Exercise Videos from the Library
If your library has a video collection, exercise videos are probably a part of it. Check out a different exercise DVD or tape each week, and you'll never get bored with your fitness routine.

3. Take Steps Instead of the Elevator
There's a reason you've heard this tip before: it works. So skip the elevator and head for those stairs.

4. Clean Your House
Cleaning your house isn't work; it's exercise. Get out those cleaning supplies; then, scrub and vacuum your way to a more fit you. The pay off: A 150-pound person can expect to burn 216 calories with 30 minutes of housework.

5. Find an Online Support Group
Weight loss programs offer valuable support, but the price of joining can be a bit prohibitive. The solution? Join a free online support group. You can even use the Frugal Health & Weight Loss forum here at Frugal Living.

6. Walk Away the Pounds
Lace up your sneakers and get those feet in gear. Walking is the ultimate in free exercise.

7. Find an Exercise Program on TV
Turn time in front of the TV into workout time by following along with one of the many exercise programs on TV. Even public television has exercise programs, so lack of cable is no excuse!

8. Take Advantage of Parks and Rec Programs
Check with your area Parks and Rec to find out what programs they have to offer. This could range from low-cost exercise and wellness classes to free gym access. It definitely pays to make a call.

9. Utilize Walking Trails and Parks
Make the most of your tax dollars by utilizing area park facilities and walking trails. Like to golf? You may even be able to track down a free public golf course.

10. Turn on Some Music and Dance
Grab your favorite tunes, and get your body in motion. Dancing is great exercise – and it doesn't cost a dime.

- - -

http://frugalliving.about.com/od/beautyhealthcare/tp/Frugal_Exercise.01.htm

Have you resolved to make this the year that you get in shape? Then, check out these frugal exercise ideas:

11. Work Out with a Friend
Feel like you need a gym membership or a personal trainer to stay motivated? Try working out with a friend instead. Knowing that someone is counting on you to show up may be all the motivation that you need.

12. Seek Out Used Equipment
Let your friends and family know that you're looking for exercise equipment, and they may be happy to unload some of theirs. No luck with your friends? Then, check Freecycle, Craigslist and Play It Again stores for free and low-cost equipment.

13. Use What You Have
No money or space for equipment? Then, use what you have. Stairs can be used in place of a stair stepper, cans can be used in place of hand weights – all it takes is a little creativity to find what you need to get in shape.

14. Redecorate
Spruce up your house and your body at the same time by rearranging your furniture. You’ll burn an estimated 450 calories in an hour. Not too shabby!