By Dr. Ira Shapiro
Director of the Plaza Chiropractic Center
A lack of time and energy is the common lament of most adults frantically trying to exercise daily.
For many, this pursuit is nearly impossible, consistently sidetracked by the rigors of life. Family, work and hundreds of other demands always seem to stand in the way of better health and fitness. Somehow physical welfare always winds up second in importance to everything else on the plate.
Unfortunately, wellness is not a luxury and something that will happen on its own, no matter the best intentions or positive thoughts. Most experts agree that 30 minutes a day of moderate aerobic activity is essential for controlling weight, fighting disease and improving mood and sex lives.
While seemingly farfetched for many us, there are ways to overcome life’s obstacles on a daily basis for months on end. The first step starts with commitment and the realization that exercise is as fundamental to well-being as nutrition and rest. In fact, it’s time to start thinking of these three elements as a divine combination for an improved life.
Next, figure out what’s doable and stick to it. Literally sit down, take a moment and examine your day. Ever hear of step counting? Many experts and organizations have promoted the benefits of walking 10,000 step per day. For a person with a normal gait, this equates to five miles daily.
The trick is fitting the extra steps into a hectic schedule. But is it really that difficult if you think about it? Suppose you park on the far end of the parking lot? How many steps will that add to your daily count? What about taking the stairs whenever possible instead of the elevator or escalator? Ever consider watching TV while walking on a treadmill or going for a brisk walk before or after dinner?
Another key is doing what you like. Think of exercise as a way to indulge yourself. Give different workouts or activities a try. But you don’t have to do something simply because others enjoy it. Find a routine that is enjoyable, achievable and rewarding for you. It’s time to think of exercise as ice cream for your body and soul – a way to escape the world and focus on yourself.
In addition, here are several tips for fitting a few extra moments of exercise into your daily routine. Just remember, it all adds up at the end of the day.
- Like reading? Try reading the newspaper, or even a book or magazine while
peddling on a stationary bike. It’s a good way to catch up on daily events while helping to pass the time. - Skip the lunchroom. Go for a walk and clear your head while enjoying the
outdoors on a nice day. - Choose something over nothing. A 10-minute walk is better than no walk at all or taking a brief stroll to the vending machine.
- Don’t get discouraged if you had a bad workout day. Take a deep breath, forgive yourself, and start again tomorrow.
- Make smart choices. Be determined. Do what you can when you can.
- Make a determined decision to move more and sit less. Stand up, stretch your
legs or even take a brief walk to the water cooler every 30 minutes to an hour.
For more information on creating better, fitter and healthier lives for the entire family please contact the Plaza Chiropractic Center at 732-723-0023, or visit www.plazachiro.com. Our trained staff will be happy to work with you, no matter your age or condition, to develop a safe and effective wellness program that complements your lifestyle and offers long-lasting fitness rewards.
Dr. Ira A. Shapiro is the director of the Plaza Chiropractic Center, which he founded in Old Bridge in 1984. A two-time member of the U.S. Olympic Team Medical Staff, for the past three decades, Dr. Shapiro has provided safe, gentle and effective chiropractic care to tens of thousands of patients, ranging from community members to professional athletes competing at the highest international levels.

