Here are 10 quick and easy ways to burn calories without hitting the gym along with my personal thoughts(smile.) The tips provided should not replace a regular exercise routine but are a great way to aid in developing a healthy lifestyle.

1) Listen to your stomach- Eat when you are hungry, not because food is present.

My thoughts- Better said than done! How do you turn down the hot wings, pizza or greasy fries when everyone in your office chows down on them? My secret has been to have my lunch BEFORE you they have their lunch. That way, I am not hungry when their food comes in and if I want a “taste,” It’s just that!

2) Keep healthy food around- If you are a snack type of person, keep healthy alternatives such as almonds, fruit, protein bars, etc. around so that you are less likely to grab for a bag of potato chips.

My thoughts-Another bit of advice hard to follow. What I have learned to do is to bring in snacks that I keep on my desk. I keep a jar of almonds, fresh fruit, rice cakes, etc right there on my desk so in the event I get hungry, it’s quick to through something healthy in my mouth!lol

3) Drink plenty of water- You can burn 50-100 calories a day by drinking a half gallon of cold water.

My thoughts- Now, this rule isn’t hard for me to follow because water is my main staple. However, co-workers who aren’t into consuming water in large amounts have purchased water bottled(gallon, etc) from Target, Walmart, Wholefoods, etc and just walk around all day with it until they finish their water. Smart move!

4) Eat protein-Eat a lean source of protein with every meal to prevent cravings and overeating. Not only does this sustain your appetite but also protein is rich in amino acids that aids muscle repair.

5) Play a Wii- The Nintendo Wii has various games such tennis, bowling, etc. that require movement. Join the boys, pick up a video game and burn some calories.

6) Eat your fiber- Your mother was right (as always). Fiber keeps you full and helps you avoid sugar cravings. You can take a fiber supplement that you can add to your juice or simply look out for foods rich in fiber such as apples, broccoli, beans, etc.

My thoughts-I find it best if I just take Fibercom or some sort of supplement on top of eating well to ensure that I am getting enough fiber. If anyone has any great tips on this one, let me know.

7) Alcohol- One of my least favorite crutches to get rid of, but yes ladies, that glass of wine, pilsner of beer, or favorite cocktail– they’re all loaded with calories and sugar. Try white wine spritzers with tonic or vodka and seltzer as a low calorie alternative (we know–yuck!).

My thoughts- If you have any healthy tips on how I can enjoy my wine, please let me know. I just can NOT give up my wine!

Shopping- Did you know that shuffling from one store to the next can help you burn more than just your cash? Yes ladies, you can burn some calories by walking through your mall and lugging heavy shopping bags around!

9) Eat 3 square meals- If you eat balanced meals, you are less likely to be hungry for McDonald’s or Wendy’s because you’ve missed a meal. Let healthy snacks in your fridge(apples, almonds or yogurt) replace cravings for fattening snacks like french fries and ice cream from fast food restaurants.

My thoughts-If you aren’t suppose to eat it, don’t buy it. To ensure you do this, don’t go to the grocery store when you are hungry!

10) Household chores- Now, I hate to admit this one but cleaning your home (washing floors, folding laundry, etc.) actually helps in burning calories.

My thoughts-Save your money from shopping and tell your cleaning lady to come back next week and get to your chores!

As always, be sure to check with your doctor first for professional advice on how you can maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle!