Everyday Exercise: The Workouts You Don't Even Realize You're Doing
Welcome back, I'm so happy you're here!
I don't know about you, but my Instagram feed is constantly filled with people running marathons, hiking impossible peaks, and celebrating their 500th workout class. When that becomes your baseline for what a "real" workout looks like, it's easy to feel intimidated—even discouraged. If I can't run 26.2 miles, why bother running at all, right?
But here's the truth we tend to forget: social media is a highlight reel. It's wonderful to celebrate other people's big achievements, but we can't let those moments make us forget the countless baby steps it takes to get there. You don't hit 500 SoulCycle classes without showing up for your first one. Then your fifth. Then your tenth.
That's why I want to start celebrating the small things. The invisible workouts. The ones you might be doing every day without even realizing their impact. And I promise you: the effort might be small, but the effect can be huge.
How Daily Life Doubles as Exercise
I've lived in two major cities now, and both times, I worried about gaining weight or falling out of shape. Cities are full of amazing food, and the responsibilities that brought me there usually meant long hours sitting at a desk. But to my surprise, I felt energized. Strong. Healthy.
Why? Because I walked everywhere.
That ten-minute walk to the grocery store (and the ten-minute walk back with heavy bags)? That's a workout. Every flight of stairs you climb? Basically a quick visit to the stair-master. These everyday movements add up—and they matter more than you might think.
Low-Effort Ways to Get More Movement In
There are so many easy ways to build in just a little more physical activity without ever stepping into a gym:
Walk or bike instead of driving
Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator
Walk while on phone calls or listening to podcasts
Clean or organize your space (scrubbing those bathroom tiles is definitely a workout!)
Play with pets or kids
Run errands on foot when possible
You can even turn movement into a social activity. I love a good hot girl walk with friends. And let's be honest—some of my most active nights have been out bar hopping or dancing, counting 20,000+ steps by the end. That absolutely counts too.
Redefining What "Counts" as a Workout
The more we appreciate these smaller movements, the more confident we become in our ability to keep going. Fitness doesn't have to be loud, intense, or overwhelming. It can be slow, joyful, messy, and still be enough.
Though these everyday activities aren't replacements for dedicated workouts, they offer many of the same benefits. They boost circulation, elevate mood, and help maintain muscle tone—all without adding unnecessary pressure to your routine.
Your Invitation to Celebrate Small Movements
So here's your reminder: you don't need to do the most to feel your best. Start where you are. Celebrate what you already do. And let the little things carry you forward, one step at a time.
