Crafty ways to get fit. Every little bit counts.

Modern life and all its duties tend to sneak up on us and before you know it, another day has gone by without clocking in any workout. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here’s a cheat sheet on how to clock more movement into daily life – and get chores done at the same time!

1. Who says housework is boring? 

Inject some fun as you get your chores done. Try these: Do some jumping jacks to get your heart rate up while waiting for your coffee to brew. Shape those calves by standing on tiptoes repeatedly while you are doing your dishes. Reach out and stretch more as you give your cupboards and mirrors a good wipe down. Sing and dance to your favourite tunes while at it. An hour of light housework expends around 138 calories*. Now that’s what we call “hitting two birds with one stone”.

2. Move more, live better

Instead of making a special trip to the gym, why not transform your home into your personal workout space? This is easily done by placing a yoga mat, kettlebell, weights or a resistance band at your favourite spots like the sofa, television, fridge or your bed. Get into the habit of getting some workouts in whenever you pass by these ‘workout hotspots’. And then, reward yourself with a pick-me-up after these routines. Treat yourself to a refreshing glass of lemon-infused water or whip up a delicious calcium-rich fruity blend with Anlene milk which contains vital nutrients to help keep your bones, joints and muscles healthy. You deserve it!

3. Squat your way to a perkier bum 

If there’s just one exercise to embark upon, the humble squat is a good place to start. Other than toned legs and butt, squats improve your balance, posture and even digestion. Be creative; squat while brushing your teeth, while on the phone or when blow-drying your hair. To really feel the burn, hold a squat for a full minute. Squeeze in as many as squats as you can and get ready to flaunt those sexy gams. 

4. Climb your way into your favourite pair of jeans

There’s a saying that every challenge is an opportunity – we say this is true for stairs! Treat them as another chance to burn more calories – escalators included. Five minutes on the stairs already shaves off at least 40 calories*. Try climbing faster, carry weights or take two to three steps at a go to burn even more calories. Bet you will fit into those ‘maybe-one-day-they’d-fit’ jeans easily with every stair you climb.

5. Tone your muscles while standing in line 

Did you know that simply clenching and unclenching your butt muscles will help tone your rear? This exercise is none other than isometrics, where all you need to do is tighten and flex your muscles. This will make the muscles stronger - without bulking them up! You can do this with your calves, biceps and even abs! No more staring blankly into space while you’re stuck in commute, in traffic or a boring meeting!

Right here, right now

Scheduling time for workouts may seem like a tall order for many women but remember every bit of movement adds up. What’s more, those thousands of dollars for gym membership and hours spent at the gym can be put to better use elsewhere. Start trying out these quick and efficient tips and you will feel more energized in a couple of weeks.

*Calorie calculations are based on a 55kg person using A Calorie Calculator.

This content originally appeared on Yahoo.