Get Moving this National Move More Month

Originally published on the I Earned It blog.

Four Ways to Get Moving this Move More Month 

April is National Move More Month. Move More Month was created by the American Heart Association to encourage Americans to be more active. The goal is to get as many people as possible to hit 10,000 steps per day or hit 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week.

Here are four ways to get moving this Move More Month:

1. Exercise regularly

Incorporating regular physical activity into your daily routine can offer a wide range of benefits for your overall well-being. You should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise every week and at least two days of muscle-strengthening activity per week, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Here are a few tips for successful exercising:

• Start with a warm-up: Always begin your workout session with a warm-up. A warm-up can be as simple as 5-10 minutes of light cardio or stretching exercises.
• Make a plan: Plan your workout schedule and set realistic goals. This will help keep you motivated and focused.
• Include different exercise types: Incorporate exercises in your workout routine, such as cardio, strength training, and flexibility exercises.
• Stay hydrated: Drink water before, during, and after your workout to stay hydrated.
• Don’t skip rest days: Rest days are essential for your body to recover and repair.
• Listen to your body: If you feel pain, dizziness or discomfort, stop exercising and consult a medical professional.
• Be consistent: Consistency is critical for seeing results. Aim to exercise at least 3-4 times a week for best results.

2. Find the right exercise for you

There are plenty of great exercises to try, but you must find one you enjoy. When you enjoy an exercise, you’re more likely to do it regularly. Enjoying your workout makes you more motivated to stick with it, and that can help you push through the tough days or bridge the gap between where you are now and where you want to be. When you feel your workout isn’t a chore, you’re much more likely to stay committed and get the desired results.

Here are some of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s ways to exercise, plus a few of our own:

Choosing an exercise you enjoy may take some experimentation. Still, the benefits can be tremendous once you find the one that resonates with you. Overall, if you enjoy your workout, you’ll be more committed, have fun and ultimately lead a happier and healthier lifestyle.

3. Track your steps

Tracking steps can be very influential in encouraging people to move more. Tracking steps makes you more aware of how many steps you take daily. Once you know how many steps you typically take, you can set goals to gradually increase your daily step count. This awareness can make it easier to take more steps throughout the day.

Additionally, using a pedometer may lead to exercising more and decrease your risk of stroke, heart attack and fractures, according to Reuters. Not only is tracking steps good for your health, but it can also keep you motivated to stay active. Setting a daily step goal and tracking your progress can be a great source of motivation. Seeing how many steps you have taken and how many more you need to hit your goal can encourage you to move more. Tracking steps can be a simple yet effective tool to help you incorporate more movement into your daily routine.

4. Find a workout buddy

Having a workout buddy can make your fitness journey more enjoyable and social. You will have someone to share your fitness goals and progress with, and they can provide you with support and motivation along the way. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests working out with a friend can make you more motivated, adventurous and consistent. Working out with a partner can add variety to your workout routine by sharing new exercises or trying different workouts together. When you have a workout buddy, you are less likely to skip a workout as you both hold each other accountable. Additionally, you can motivate and encourage each other when one of you feels less motivated.