The modern lifestyle is far from an active one. Many of us spend hours sitting down, practically motionless, either working, watching TV, or surfing the web. This inactive lifestyle may have some undesirable outcomes such as weight gain, increased tiredness, and various health issues. In my experience, active people are not only healthier but also happier.

This is why I’ve compiled this list of 40 ways for you to be more active:

1. You can take the stairs if you are not in a rush and only have to go to a few floors up.
2. Take a hike if you only have to go a few blocks.
3. Stretch your arms and legs while waiting for the laundry.
4. Stretch those legs while enjoying a cup of coffee.
5. Do sit-ups during commercial breaks
6. Add a stationary bike or a treadmill and get into it while watching daily news.
7. Sprint or brisk walk when going to a nearby store.
8. Ride a bicycle when visiting a friend nearby or when going to nearby places.
9. Take your dog for a walk at the park instead of hiring someone to do it. It will not only act as an exercise but also a breath of fresh air while enjoying the view. OR GET A DOG!
10. Playing chasing games with your kids is a good way to bond and enjoy while it is a good exercise.
11. Lift your legs straightly and alternately while lying on the bed.
12. Move your hips in a circular motion while brushing your teeth.
13. You can squat or bend on your back while picking up messy toys on the floor.
14. Bend and stretch your legs while dusting off furniture.
15. Lifting groceries is like lifting weights but be sure not to strain your muscles. Lift weights you can handle.
16. If you are only picking up a few items in the store, use the basket instead of the cart.
17. When riding a bus home, get off a few blocks away from your house and walk the rest of the way.
18. Go camping with your family and take the hiking trails.
19. Gardening is fun and will make you sweat.
20. Wash your car and wax it.
21. Rake the leaves in your yard instead of paying someone to do it.
22. Take 10 minutes each day and dance to your favorite music.
23. Bond with your family by playing sports.
24. Swim at your local pool.
25. When at the beach, play volleyball.
26. Or take a stroll at the shore.
27. When shopping, take the stairs instead of the escalator or elevator.
28. Try a new physical activity with your friends once a week. The more the merrier.
29. Art exhibits, museums and zoos encourage walking.
30. Perform simple exercises like jumping jacks, stretching or stationary jogging 5 to 10 minutes before breakfast.
31. Play with your kids; limit their time in playing video games and watching television. It will not only benefit you but your kids as well.
32. Stand up and stretch your legs alternately while talking on the phone.
33. Encourage every member of the family and divide household chores. Simple chores for the kids.
34. Stretch your back, move your shoulders in circular motion and your head back and forth every twenty minutes when sitting in front of the computer.
35. Participate in community cleanliness drives.
36. Mow your lawn with a traditional push mower.
37. Be a foster owner to abandoned pets. Taking care of them encourages physical activities.
38. Gather and chop your firewood.
39. Suggest and participate in building a fun and safe obstacle course for community or school activities.
40. Always make time and organize family bonding by doing more outdoor activities.