It is so difficult to find time for formal exercise in these times of hectic schedules, extracurricular activities and large workloads.  Most of us are too tired by the end of the day, and mornings are reserved for getting ready for work.  Forcing time for workouts is usually not a high priority.  One way you can increase your exercise without a dedicated schedule is to cut out some shortcuts.

Innovative thinkers have created so many ways for us to save time – and effort – with the use of tools and shortcuts to get through our day.  Elevators and escalators are great examples.  They make our travel much easier, but at the expense of exercise.  You might be surprised at how much extra exercise you can get by spending just a couple minutes more per day to take the stairs instead.

When you go shopping, try parking at the end of the block or in the back of the parking lot.  It doesn’t take much more time to get where you are going, but you will get a few extra steps in, and that can make a big difference.

Instead of power tools and gadgets, go back to basics with simpler tools.  Don’t use an electric can opener, but go for a manual one instead.  While that alone won’t do much for your waistline, it will help simplify your life and build on an overall lifestyle of enjoying manual labor over electronic convenience.

As you go through your day, take a look at the ways you get things done.  When possible, switch to something that requires a little more effort.  Each individual change won’t amount to much, but combined, these changes can help you get more exercise and stay in better shape.