A very doable 5-minute exercise challenge

If you own an exercise machine or equipment that you no longer use, make a decision right now that you will get the spider webs off that exercise equipment and use it for just 5 minutes a day! It’s a small investment in yourself which will yield huge dividends towards your health.

If you don’t own any equipment that’s ok too. Try any of the following for just 5 minutes a day, modifying any exercise to match your flexibility level (remember to be gentle on your joints and always protect your back).

Sedentary lifestyles can potentially lead to blood clots and other health problems, so make sure to keep that circulation going! If you have a desk job, get up from your desk every 30 minutes and stretch. Also, don’t forget to keep a glass of water handy all day.

For just 5 minutes a day, do just one of the following:

(Of course, if you start feeling tired, slow down or take a break)

• Light crunches
• Walking or marching in place
• Waist twists
• Gentle jumping jacks or jumping rope (using an imaginary rope)
• While sitting in a chair, bring each foot up, as if kicking a ball
• While sitting in a chair, do arm circles or punch the air like a boxer
• Gentle push ups (by pushing off the high end of your kitchen counter/bar). Ten repetition sets with rest in between
• Wall push ups
• And our favorite: Play your favorite music and dance for 5 minutes!