There are a number of ways you can boost your metabolism, from high intensity interval training to eating more frequently throughout the day. There’s also a simple, new way and it’s quite NEAT. Otherwise known as non-exercise activity thermogenesis, NEAT is a new area of research that studies the effects of living a sedentary lifestyle. NEAT includes everything but exercises, including things like walking or steps, pacing, climbing stairs, and fidgeting.
This research has found that small, frequent moves make a significant impact on overall daily activity. One study found that people who fidget expend 352 additional calories per day (the same as a 3-4 mile run). By increasing your NEAT Factor, you’ll burn more calories daily, boost your metabolism, and more easily maintain your weight.
Our world is full of wonderfully convenient technology, but there is a consequence doing things more easily, we just don’t have to move. Technology has made our world wonderfully convenient, but it’s also contributing to inactivity. NEAT has been found to make a difference in small, but significant ways.
Here are four simple ways to increase your metabolism, burn more daily calories and boost your NEAT Factor.
Coach Jenny Hadfield is a published author, writer, coach, public speaker and endurance athlete. To find out more, visit our Meet Our Writers page or visit Coach Jenny’s website.
Wear a Fitness Tracker
Wearing a device like a Fitbit not only tracks the number of steps you take in a day, it also connects you to your friends so you can compete in fun challenges.Set A Timer On Your Computer
As I write this post, I have a free app called Time Out set to remind me to get up and move around every 30 minutes. I have a series of moves I perform, some involve climbing stairs, doing squats or simply walking around.Take A Walk
There’s nothing better to re-focus the mind than a walk in the middle of the day. Take 10-15 minutes to walk around your office, take a break and get outside, or even walking in place. If you don’t have the time to go for a walk, park farther away from the entrance and sneak it in before and after work, and when you run your errands.Pace On The Phone
When you’re on the phone, move around. It’s a simple way to get in activity. By adding these small habits, you’ll dramatically boost your metabolism and make a significant impact on your health.Image
Coach Jenny Hadfield is a published author, writer, coach, public speaker and endurance athlete. To find out more, visit our Meet Our Writers page or visit Coach Jenny’s website.