4 Fun Ways You Can Burn More Calories

Photo credit: Elizabeth from Lansing, MI, USA (Chris and Kaitlyn Planting Uploaded by Dolovis) CC-BY-2.0

The truth of the matter is that everything we do, from walking up and down the stairs to house cleaning, burns calories. While we can think of many different ways to expend more calories, the fact remains that burning more calories than we consume is the key to weight loss. Most of us associate burning those calories with painful and dreaded methods in doing so. That does not mean, however, that we cannot have fun while losing weight and getting in great shape. Here then are four fun ways to burn more calories.

Sleep It Off

Although you may find it difficult to shut your mind off at night, did you know that getting a solid eight hours of sleep every night can burn well over 350 calories a night. It pays to get into a sleep-inducing routine every evening. By setting yourself up for a good night’s sleep about an hour or two before settling in, not only do you get a healthy body, mind, and spirit, you also have the opportunity to burn calories without moving a muscle. Now, that is a win-win situation.

Grow a Garden

Even if you do not have a green thumb, the benefits of growing a garden are numerous. You will have the benefit of trying something new and no matter how big or small, you’re sure to achieve success. Gardening gives you the bonus of seeing something through from beginning to end. Whether you grow flowers or vegetables, you get to see the birth of something new and gardening has the potential to help you burn up to 300 calories per hour. Getting outside in the fresh air and being creative also clarifies the mind.

Power Walking

If you enjoy going for a leisurely stroll, why not take it up a notch. Power walking is not only fun, but also can be a great excuse to meet up with neighbors. Reach out to someone who is likely to be interested in walking but is at the same level as you. So if you are a beginner walker, do not get together with someone who is an avid runner or power walker. Begin with a beginner. As you go along, you will see that you are able to navigate hills and walk for longer time periods. All types of walking are ideal for the mind, body, soul, and for burning calories while having a fun conversation with your neighbor.

Skip the Car Wash

Rather than running the car through the car wash, gather your family around and make it a family affair. Not only will you save money by washing the car yourself, you will also burn calories and spend time with your family. Washing your car can be fun, especially at the end when everyone gets the opportunity to wet each other with the hose – and you have the possibility of burning more than 100 calories.