Straight up: any activity can help you lose weight. But, to put it in perspective, if you walk around the block once, you're not really going to be any closer to your ideal weight.
So you need regular, ongoing activity if you're ever going to lose weight. But, for more perspective, if you walk around the block once a week, you're (probably) not going to be any closer to your ideal weight.
The reason is you need enough regular activity in your life, in combination with healthy eating, to contribute to an overall calorie deficit (burning more calories than you consume). Only then will you put yourself in a position to healthily lose weight.
But, you're not a gym-goer, jogger, or even a walker. So how are you going to use activity to help you create this so-called calorie-deficit?
Simple, look for things already in your life around which you can build your very own, custom-designed-for-you-because-you-created-it, activity program.
How Cleaning the House can Help You Lose Weight
As with any regular activity you do, you should always consult your doctor before you begin a new activity, and stop immediately if you feel any pain or discomfort.
Also, don't expect the pounds to fall off too soon. Be kind to yourself. The activities below can help you lose weight, but they will not likely be a significant source of weight loss on their own.
As we said off the top, any regular activity can help you lose weight. Turning housework into an activity that contributes more to your calorie deficit is a smart place to start because it comes with an added bonus. In addition to a bit of a workout, you get the housework done!
We can't cover every possible housework workout exercise you can do. So the following suggestions are made to give you an idea of some of the things you can do. Try one or more, see what you like and come up with something on your own.
Dishwasher Squats
When emptying you dishwasher, instead of bending over at your hips, keep your back straight and lower yourself down by bending your knees and ankles. Grab a couple dishes, not too many or enough to be heavy. Push yourself up using only your legs. Put the dishes away and repeat the move.
Grocery Bag Curls
You might have seen people working out with weights by holding the weight in their hands at their side, and 'curling' the weight, and their forearm up by bending their elbow. Try the same thing with lighter grocery bags. You can do this one as you carry the groceries from the store to the car and form the car into your home.
Vacuum Arm Extensions
You already do this one. But by turning it into a workout move, you turn a chore into a feel-good activity. Start with the same motion you do to push the vacuum cleaner forward and pull it back. Except extend the move by stepping forward with the leg that's on the opposite side of your body as the vacuum cleaner. Do five full arm extensions with your right arm and left leg, then switch to doing five full extensions with you left arm and right leg. Try to extend yourself as much as you can comfortably. Repeat until the vacuuming's done!
Dress for Success
Another way to turn housework into a weight-taming workout is to dress the part. Anti-cellulite compression wear, including Active Slim Compression Leggings, not only give you the support and comfort you need while you're active, they give you the confidence to make the most of your activity with instant figure-flattering shape.
To find out more about how compression wear can help you during any workout, check out our blog article "3 Benefits of Wearing Compression Leggings for Workouts".