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1. Don't just wait; do something. Instead of pausing while the microwave heats something or waiting for the washer or dryer to finish a cycle, do squats or push-ups against a wall or just march in place. Walk around the first or second floor of your house or jog lightly in place. 2. Get a Chinese cleaver. These big knives, favored by chefs due to their heft and sharp blades, weigh more than almost any other kitchen knife, and therefore, you'll burn more calories every time you wield one instead of a puny vegetable knife. And you just might feel like an Iron Chef. 3. Cook as if it's 1904. Chop veggies by hand instead of in the food processor, whip eggs with a fork or whisk, mix cake batter with a big spoon instead of the mixer, dig out your manual can opener and get rid of the electric model, and, if you have time, wash and dry the dishes by hand. Use a cast-iron skillet -- it's heavy! You'll get a bonus workout if you store it in a low cabinet and lift it up to the stove each time you plan to use it. 4. Make more trips. Stop fretting about making extra trips up and down the stairs and view them as your real-world Stairmaster routine. Skip the laundry chute and carry the clothes down to the basement in a basket. On weekends, consider resurrecting the lost art of drying clothes on a clothesline; your sheets will smell like sunshine and fresh air. Volunteer to take the trash out or empty the car after a vacation. 5. Scrub it. Washing floors by hand -- the very old-fashioned way, on your knees -- works your arm, back, and abdominal muscles. Just be sure to keep your tummy muscles tight so they help support your back. 6. Chew gum while you're working. The simple act of moving your jaws uses up about 11 calories per hour. 7. Bake bread once a week. Kneading dough is soothing and works muscles in your arms and shoulders. And the taste? Divine. |
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JOIN THE DISCUSSION |
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