Why NEAT Matters
NEAT is a simple way to stay more active throughout your day. It can:
- Help you naturally keep a healthy weight without extra time commitment.
- Reduce stiffness and discomfort by breaking up long periods of sitting.
- Support long-term health by lowering risks linked to a sedentary lifestyle, like poor circulation or metabolic issues.
NEAT + Exercise: A Perfect Pair
NEAT isn’t a replacement for regular exercise, but it can benefit those who already have a fitness routine or serve as an approachable step in building your physical fitness.
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week for optimal health, but for many, that number can be hard to achieve. If you’re a beginner, NEAT can help you ease into a more active lifestyle and amplify your overall activity levels.
Creative Ways to Add NEAT to Your Day
- Think small but frequent: Set a timer to get up and move for 2-3 minutes every hour—whether it’s to do a quick stretch or grab some water.
- Make movement fun: Dance to your favorite playlist while cooking or unloading the dishwasher.
- Bring back play: Toss a ball or frisbee with a friend or family member while you chat instead of scrolling on your phones.
- Walk Whenever Possible: Park farther away, take the stairs at work, or go for a quick walk at lunch.
- Create a Stretch Roulette: Write down a few simple stretches on sticky notes, shuffle them, and pick one every hour to break up sitting time.
Small, intentional movements can bridge the gap between a sedentary lifestyle and better health. By weaving NEAT into your day, you’ll boost your energy, improve your wellbeing, and lay the foundation for lasting healthy habits. Start moving more today and feel the difference!