Photo: EyeEm
Have you thought "UGH, does (insert chore here) count as working out?" The answer is YES!!! And there’s even a name for this "undercover physical activity," It's called non-exercise activity thermogenesis or NEAT.
It includes a broad range of things, from walking the dog to doing the dishes to cleaning out the garage. HECK YES!!
One study explains, quote, “activities that create movement will enhance caloric expenditure.” The focus with fitness is often on high-intensity workouts, and while workouts that get your heart rate up are important, NEAT is also beneficial.
You’re probably already doing a lot of these forms of "NEAT" and they burn more than 100 calories an hour!! That adds up! This includes:
- Cleaning out storage space/garage
- Grocery shopping
- Sweeping or vacuuming
- Climbing stairs
- Pushing a stroller
- Playing fetch with the dog
- Gardening or weeding
- Washing the car
- Walking to work
- Dancing
- Swimming
- Watching TV on a standing bike
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