Staying fit can be difficult at the start of the year. Cold, wet weather combined with dark evenings and the ‘come down’ from Christmas and New Year festivities can all make getting to the gym seem unattainable.
But all is not lost, everyday activities around the home can have huge physical benefits and support mental well being too. In fact, researchers at Oregon State University found that 300 minutes of household chores and other light-intensity exercise may be nearly as effective as moderate or vigorous exercise for older adults.
Activities such as hoovering, tidying and changing sheets all exert energy and are great all-round exercises for improving strength and flexibility and can be of great help in reducing the risk of high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and other medical conditions.
AXA PPP healthcare has released the following infographic outlining just how beneficial everyday activities can be on the body, to celebrate a new year of living life well.