From library work-outs to networking walks - your fool-proof plan to get fitter without spending hours at the gym
Aug 4 2006
WE know, we know. You’ve been meaning to get fit for summer, really you have. It’s just that there are deadlines to meet, people to greet, children to feed and chores to complete.
Well, don’t worry. You can still achieve those fitness goals thanks to Liverpool City Council’s latest scheme.
Whether you’re reading or waiting to surf the ‘net’, come September 4th you’ll be able to work out in the Central Library.
Yup, you heard - specialist exercise equipment are about to be installed on the second floor in the hope of getting time poor professionals and gym-phobes moving.
"Pushed for time, diaries chock-full of appointments – dates to remember and things to do – some people find it difficult to find either the time or motivation to visit the gym on a regular basis," says Mark Jones, a fitness manager for Liverpool City Council. "That’s why we’re eager to help rushed urbanites make the most of their schedules through multi-tasking fitness with other leisure activities."
Double duty exercise is certainly a trend that’s taking off in a frantic society.
"Ultra busy people often see working out as an indulgence they shouldn’t waste time on or simply don’t enjoy disciplined work-outs," says John Marsden of Active City. "But this is simply not the case. There are lots of new ways in which people can slot 30 minutes a day on getting fitter. It’s just a matter of treating your chosen activity as a multi-tasking opportunity."
And there are various ways in which to do this – from housework and supermarket sweeps to charity runs and networking walks.
Take Liz Roberts, a 32-year-old working mum of two for instance. She’s learnt that some clever planning can help her squeeze some exercise into her packed schedule.
"When the deadlines are piling up and there are calls to be made and emails to send, there are times when, despite the best intentions, I’m really too busy to hit the gym but that doesn’t mean I can’t exercise. I’ll swap my chair for an exercise ball and walk to and from meetings whenever possible."
Such small gestures may not be as effective as a gym work-out but that doesn’t mean it’s not doing you good.
As Marsden concludes: "Research shows that even very moderate amounts of physical activity at work or during leisure time could help you live longer."
Here are three easy forms of ‘double-duty’ exercises you can do this summer: >>>>>>>>>>>>>>
