Get a Good House Work Out

The holidays have come and gone, and you're faced with the aftermath. Both your house and your body could use some work. Why not turn this challenge into a "lose-lose" situation? With a little planning and effort, you can lose the mess around your house while you lose the pounds around your waist.

According to Kimberley Carlson, M.D., one of Camino Medical Group's (CMG) newest internists, the latest medical research shows you don't need to work up a heavy sweat to get the benefits of exercise.

"Even moderate housework will burn calories and help you lose weight," says Dr. Carlson. "Anything that gets you moving -- from gardening to dusting to hauling all that leftover wrapping paper out to the recycling bin -- will increase your fitness level and contribute to your overall health.

"You'll want to increase your heart rate for aerobic benefit, so try joining active housekeeping with 30 minutes of a fitness activity like walking or biking," advises Dr. Carlson. "This can combine to create the full hour of exercise that's the recommended amount of daily physical activity needed to help you lose weight."

One key to being a successful loser is technique. When you're vacuuming, use your legs, rather than your arms and shoulders. It will save your neck and upper back while burning more calories. Make large circular movements with your arms while cleaning windows or shower doors. Reach high for those corner cobwebs. Even scrub the floor on your hands and knees. During all of these activities, try to keep your "abs" tight. This will protect your back and strengthen the core muscles of your body. To have more fun and pick up the pace, put on some zippy music - something that really gets you moving.

A word of caution: Make sure to start your new exercise program slowly and carefully, or you'll end up right where you don't want to be - on the couch with a pulled muscle or strain.