Combining exercise and TV watching is a natural progression in this age of multi tasking. We are so busy juggling our roles and responsibilities that we have to find creative ways to get everything done. At first, TV and exercise might seem like an unlikely duo but given the fact that they both are on the list of our “personal” to do’s, exercise is often the last thing on the list to get done, or not get done in many cases. You may also be surprised as you read on and learn the ways they work well together.

We do not have to feel guilty for wanting to watch our favorite shows. We work hard all day and television provides a much needed rest and escape from all that fills our minds. Chances are, it is already part of your routine to be seated on the couch with the TV tuned in at certain times. You may not have thought of it this way before, but you have made a commitment to be there for that show at that time. Since the commitment is already there, why not add some activity to it? Not every workout has to be an hour. You do not always have to have a workout video on or adhere to a routine that someone else has devised. Devise a plan of your own. Do some crunches during the commercials. Keep small weights next to the couch and try curling your biceps and pressing your triceps during your viewing. A sitcom lasts thirty minutes. A walk or jog on the treadmill would fly by while watching your favorite comedy. It may take a few times to remember it and make it a habit, but do not give up. It will be worth i.

Boredom is one of the top workout killers. Often we are excited to start our work out but we get bored and distracted within a few minutes and quit, saying we’ll finish it later. Later never comes of course and another workout day is neglected. When you exercise while watching TV you are more likely to stay entertained and exercise for a longer period of time.

Night time and TV viewing time are major diet killers. For some reason we just MUST snack while watching TV at night. Exercising while watching TV keeps the hands too busy to handle food and the exercise itself reduces the craving for snacks. So next time you’re getting things to watch your favorite show, pass on the chips and grab your Pilates ball instead.

So you see, exercise and television watching are not such unlikely partners at all. Do not make the mistake of taking it too lightly though. If you want your workout to count, treat the whole thing like any other work out. Plan for it. Decide which shows would be good for you to work out to and schedule the day and time just like gym time or any other appointment so you will plan for it. Then do it.

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