Fitness
Fitness
10 Ways to Burn More Calories Just By Sitting
Who needs the gym when you can do these sneaky moves and lose weight with almost no effort?
Fidget Tap your feet. Wiggle in your seat. Tap that pen on your desk. According to an Iowa State University study, researchers found that those who frequently fidgeted, stood up, and walked around could burn an additional 300 calories per day, compared to those who remain stationary. In fact, Annette Cain, certified personal trainer and author of "Get In Shape the Lazy Way," says the impulse to fidget may be hardwired, so you might not even need to make a concerted effort to do this. If you do, Cain says to fidget for 3 to 5 minutes at a time, 8 to 10 times a day.
The reason this works? "Movement requires energy, thus calories get burned," she says. "Think about when you shiver from being cold -- your body is trying to generate heat with involuntary muscle contractions that require energy and calories." Since engaging more muscles and using resistance will burn even more calories, try upping the ante the next time you fidget: if you shake your leg, Cain says to come to the balls of your feet to work the calves; if you tap your toes, alternate feet and keep your abs pulled in. Want a fun fidget fact? "The first two fidgets always burn the most calories," she says.
SEE NEXT PAGE: Replace Your Chair
The reason this works? "Movement requires energy, thus calories get burned," she says. "Think about when you shiver from being cold -- your body is trying to generate heat with involuntary muscle contractions that require energy and calories." Since engaging more muscles and using resistance will burn even more calories, try upping the ante the next time you fidget: if you shake your leg, Cain says to come to the balls of your feet to work the calves; if you tap your toes, alternate feet and keep your abs pulled in. Want a fun fidget fact? "The first two fidgets always burn the most calories," she says.
SEE NEXT PAGE: Replace Your Chair
4 of 11
