There are a couple of items that you can use to boost your workout.  The first is toning shoes.  You’ve probably seen these in a magazine or on someone else.  Though they aren’t the most fashionable of shoes, there are some fantastic benefits to wearing these around the house and for walks.  Because the sole of the shoes is rounded and not flat, you are forced to engage your core muscles.  Your legs, thighs and gluts will become stronger and tighter.

Second, ankle weights did not die with the 80′s.  You won’t want to wear these in public, but why not strap them on while you are going about your household chores?  It’s an inexpensive and easy way to add some oomph to your workout.

Here are a few ways that you can build muscle and elevate your heart rate while you check some things off of your to do list.

1.  Grocery Shopping:  How often do you case the parking lot waiting for the closest parking space?  Unless it’s raining, park at the far end of the lot.  The walk is good for you.  As you are checking out, the clerk may ask if you need assistance to your car.  Politely decline.  Pushing the cart and unloading the groceries is a good way to work those arm muscles. 

2.  Vacuuming:  Vacuuming is a great workout.  Put some muscle and energy into the motions and make sure to switch arms.  We all have a stronger, more dominant arm, so vacuuming is the perfect opportunity to build some muscle in your weaker arm.  If your home is more than one level, carry the vacuum up and down the stairs.  Don’t keep a vacuum on each level of your house.

3.  Mowing:  You might consider mowing the lawn to be a man’s job.  Well, find another job for him because mowing is a great workout.  You are using your arm, back and abdominal muscles to push the mower.  Take it off the self-propelled mode, stand up straight and walk briskly as you mow your yard.  Your grass will get cut and you will have just completed a total body workout.

Of course, not every household task can be turned into a workout, but you can become more physically fit by making an effort to park farther away from your destination, take the stairs instead of an elevator and walk whenever possible.  By incorporating some of these changes into your lifestyle, you will improve your overall physical fitness and have more energy throughout the day.