Menopause Fitness: The Incredible Power of NEAT

In our quest for fitness, we often fixate on hitting the gym or following strict exercise routines. However, we overlook the significant impact of all the small stuff. And it all counts! It's time you give it the credit it deserves. There's even a name for it: Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis (NEAT). This often-neglected aspect of daily movement plays a crucial role in burning calories and maintaining overall health. It's time to shift our focus and unlock the potential of NEAT for a more active and balanced lifestyle.

NEAT refers to the calories burned through daily activities that are not structured exercise. It includes movements like walking, fidgeting, cleaning, and even standing. NEAT is incredibly beneficial because it contributes to overall energy expenditure. As we age, our NEAT tends to decrease because of factors such as sedentary lifestyles, muscle loss, and decreased overall activity. However, it's never too late to harness the power of NEAT and increase it through simple lifestyle adjustments and incorporating more movement into daily routines. Unlike traditional exercise, NEAT can be incorporated effortlessly into daily routines, making it accessible to people of all fitness levels. By prioritizing NEAT, you can enjoy the benefits of increased physical activity without the need for structured workouts. Here are a few fun ways to increase your NEAT: 

Dance Like Nobody’s Watching

Dancing is not only a fantastic way to express yourself; it's also a sneaky NEAT booster. So, put on your favorite tunes and bust out your signature moves. Whether it's the sprinkler, the running man, or your unique interpretation of interpretive dance, let loose and get grooving. Bonus points if you incorporate vacuuming or dusting into your dance routine. You'll have a clean house and a NEAT-increasing dance party all in one.

The Epic Quest for the Perfect Parking Spot

We all know the struggle of finding a parking spot near our destination. But why not turn it into a fun game? Instead of circling like a vulture waiting for the closest spot, opt for the farthest one. Walking those extra steps increases your NEAT and means avoiding the chaos of crowded parking lots. It's a win-win!

Mastering the Fine Art of Fanning

Is there anything more glamorous than the art of fanning? Menopause gives us the perfect excuse to channel our inner Southern belle or Spanish flamenco dancer and flaunt our fan-waving skills. Not only does it provide a cooling effect during hot flashes, but it also engages our arm muscles, contributing to NEAT. So, grab that fancy fan, perfect your graceful fan-opening technique, and add a touch of elegance to your menopausal journey. 

Embracing the Stair Master

Forget the fancy gym equipment. Your home or any other building can become a treasure trove of NEAT opportunities. The staircase is your secret weapon. Instead of using the elevator or escalator, challenge yourself to climb those stairs with gusto. Make it a daily habit and revel in the satisfaction of burning extra calories while getting to your desired floor. Just be prepared for the occasional odd look from others who can't quite comprehend your stair-master dedication.

Household Chores to the Rescue

Household chores are a necessary evil, but they can also be an opportunity for NEAT greatness. Embrace your inner Mrs. Doubtfire and turn mundane tasks into calorie-burning adventures. Vacuum with exaggerated movements, do lunges while folding laundry, or engage in an epic battle with dust bunnies. The more dramatic your actions, the more NEAT points you'll earn. And who knows, maybe you'll inspire your family members to join in the choreographic madness.

The Joy of Staying Active (without really trying)

Staying active doesn't have to involve intense workouts or high-energy activities. Embrace the joy of lazy movement. Instead of sitting completely still, incorporate small, subtle movements into your daily routine. Wiggle your toes, stretch your arms, or sway your hips while watching your favorite TV show. These mini bursts of activity contribute to NEAT and keep your body engaged without breaking a sweat.

With a touch of humor and a sprinkle of imagination, you can turn everyday activities into NEAT-boosting adventures. So, dance like no one's watching, perfect your fanning techniques, incorporate small movements into your daily routine, and take the scenic route through the parking lot. Menopause may bring its fair share of challenges, but with a touch of humor and a dash of creativity, we can navigate this phase with some laughter. 

What are some of the ways that you increase your NEAT? I’d love to hear. Email me at [email protected]