Brrrrrrrrrr!!!
We’ve reached that part of winter where it seems like everything is frozen solid. How can we be excited about getting healthy when we feel like a popsicle?
Hmmm, let’s shift that focus a little bit. The cold has us all inside, making good stuff in the kitchen, streaming entertainment, or maybe indulging in some creative craft time. So cozy!
Part of the appeal of a cozy environment is a clean space. We wash dishes, clear up clutter, sweep and maybe mop every day. So, let’s take advantage of our everyday housework, and turn it into an exercise opportunity!
Here’s a quick video showing you how to include sweeping and mopping in your workout.
And here, from Good Housekeeping, is a list of which chores burn the most calories.
And finally, how you can burn more calories as you do housework.
Every little bit of exercise helps, right? If you have a step tracker, all of the steps you take each day count, even if you’re just walking to the fridge. So, next time you tackle your household chores, step up the pace a little bit to get your heart beating fast, and count that as part of your daily exercise!
Tracker Check!
How is your Wellness Tracker sheet looking? Do you have a few days when you hit all of the goals? Great job! This week, try and get all your goals checked off for 3 more days.
You can print out another copy of the sheet here. And remember, the Get Fit points calculator site is designed for you to enter your information once a week, and you must submit your points within 2 weeks of earning them. Though it doesn’t matter what day you enter your points, please limit submitting them online to once a week!
Points Points Points!
While we’re talking about points, remember, attending the free Family Fun Night at the YMCA of Northwest Illinois in Freeport – there’s one every Saturday! – can get you 5 points for the first time you go, and 1 point for each time after that!
Kitchen Experimentation
When it’s too cold to go outside, why not take on something new in the kitchen? You can make almost any recipe healthier with some swaps. Here’s a list from the American Heart Association to get you started.
Just like with exercise, every change you make – even if it’s as simple as using whole-wheat bread instead of white – makes a difference. What you give your body as fuel is important! What healthy swaps are you making?
This week’s recipe is a good opportunity to make a healthy swap – use whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta. For an even healthier boost, serve it over roasted veggies – here are some ideas and a recipe to get you started!
Slow Cooker Bolognese
This Slow Cooker Bolognese is a hearty, flavorful recipe that’s perfect for busy weekdays or cozy weekend dinners. Serve it over pasta or paired with roasted vegetables.
Quiz Winner
Congratulations to Quiz #2 winner, Matt F. He’s getting a $25 grocery gift card! (Keep an eye on your mailbox, Matt!)
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