Edward Stanley once said, “Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness.” The 15th Earl of Derby said that in the late 19th century. So, we’ve known for a while that exercise is good for us. the eternal struggle remains where we find the time for it? One key may be to quit trying to “find time” and think instead about merging activity into what you are already doing. Research has shown that several 10-minute bouts of activity a day can be as beneficial for your health as one continuous 30 to 60-minute period. With this in mind, you can strategize ways to incorporate movement into your day. Remember, exercise is a journey, not a destination. And every destination starts with a single step.

1. Walk to get your mail at work. Or walk to someone’s office rather then send an email.

2. Use the stairs whenever possible and perhaps take the long way around (go up one floor then down two and back one).

3. Use the bathroom on another floor at work or in your home.

4. Set a timer on your computer or your watch to remind you that you have been sitting too long and it’s time to move.

5. Convert your desk to a standing desk.

6. Park in one location and walk to several places while running errands.

7. Once a week commit to walking to a store or to lunch or to get the paper.

8. If your dog is overweight, maybe it’s time for you both to go for a couple of short walks each day.