That's NEAT!
Not everyone loves to participate in structured exercise.
And that's OK!
Non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) is the energy used (calories burned) for everything we do that is not sleeping, eating, or exercising. It includes things like gardening and yard work, cleaning the house, even walking to work or just fidgeting. NEAT can have a profound impact on metabolic rate and energy expenditure. A study from 2014 showed that up to 2,000 kilocalories per day can be burned by NEAT! This is one of the ways that our bodies can maintain a healthy weight.
Some cultures naturally have more of this in their daily routine. Here in America, depending on where you live, it is very easy to be sedentary. We have to constantly consciously find ways to move our bodies. NEAT research shows us that every little bit can help, and actually helps to reap more benefits of structured exercise.
Here are some NEAT ways to help improve your health:
- use a standing desk for work
- opt for a stability ball instead of a regular chair
- walk, bike, or take the bus to work when possible
- take the stairs
- play with the kids
- walk the dog
- mow the lawn
- raking leaves
Wow, I didn't know that NEAT techniques could be that effective.