Your Body Was Made to Move: But What Does ‘Moving More’ Actually Mean?
“Move more.” You have probably heard it before.
But what does that actually mean? Does it mean you need to start going to the gym every morning, running every day or doing intense workouts? Not necessarily.
Your body was made to move, but movement is more than exercise.
What counts as movement?
Walking to work. Taking the stairs. Cleaning the house. Dancing while getting ready. Playing with your children. Walking around at work. Even getting up from your chair after sitting for a long time.
These are all ways your body moves.
We often think that if we haven't completed a “proper workout”, we haven't been active. But your body doesn't only move when you're wearing gym clothes.
So, what does “moving more” mean? It simply means finding more opportunities to use your body throughout the day. If you normally take the lift, take the stairs sometimes. If you've been sitting for hours, get up and walk around. If you spend your entire evening on the couch after work, take a short walk before settling down. And if you don't exercise at all, you don't have to suddenly start with an hour-long workout.
Start small.
A short walk counts. A few stretches count. Dancing to your favourite song counts. The goal is not to turn every free moment into exercise. It is to avoid spending most of your day sitting or being inactive.
But do I still need exercise? Yes.
Movement and exercise are not the same thing. Your walk to the shop is physical activity. A planned strength workout is exercise. Both have their place. Exercise can help improve things like strength, fitness, flexibility and balance, while regular movement helps you stay active throughout your day.
So, don't think movement OR exercise.
Think movement AND exercise.
Start where you are. You don't need a gym membership or fancy equipment.
Look at your normal day and ask yourself: “Where can I move a little more?”
Walk when you can. Take the stairs sometimes. Stretch after sitting for a while. Dance. Play. Exercise. Just move.
Of course, moving more doesn't mean ignoring pain or forcing yourself through an injury. If you have a health condition or an injury affecting your movement, speak with an appropriate healthcare professional.
Your body doesn't need perfection. It needs movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does walking count as exercise?
Yes. Walking is physical activity and can contribute to your health and fitness.
Does housework count as physical activity?
Yes. Cleaning, sweeping, mopping and similar activities involve movement and use energy.
Can I start moving more if I haven't exercised in a long time?
Absolutely. Start with manageable activities like short walks and gradually build up.
Is ‘moving more’ enough, or do I still need exercise?
Both are beneficial. Regular movement keeps you active throughout the day, while structured exercise helps you work on specific areas such as strength and fitness.
Need a Physiotherapist for consultation or assessment, send a message to The Everyday Physiotherapist on Instagram.
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