We all know the importance of exercise. But did you know that a significant amount of the calories we burn on a daily basis happen from our activity outside of the gym? This is where “Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis” (N.E.A.T) comes into play.
What exactly is N.E.A.T?
N.E.A.T is the energy we use for everything we do outside of sleeping and exercising. This includes activities like walking, standing, or even doing chores around the house. While these might not seem very important, they contribute in a major way to our overall amount of calories we burn on a daily basis.
Why is N.E.A.T Important?
1. Weight Management: By increasing your N.E.A.T, you can burn more calories without feeling overwhelmed by workouts. This can be especially helpful for those with a busy schedule who are only able to make it to gym a couple times a week.
2.Metabolic Boost: Regular N.E.A.T can help boost your metabolism, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
3.Improved Health: Incorporating more N.E.A.T into your daily routine can lead to improved overall health and well-being. It can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
4.Mental Health Benefits: Engaging in N.E.A.T activities can also have positive effects on your mental health. It can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. Feeling stressed out? Go on a 15 minute walk and see how you feel afterwards.
Tips for Increasing N.E.A.T
1. Take more breaks: Get up from your desk every hour and move around.
2. Walk whenever possible: Instead of driving short distances, consider walking or biking.
3. Do household chores: Cleaning, gardening, and DIY projects can burn calories.
Stand more: Try to stand instead of sitting whenever possible.
Conclusion
While structured workouts are essential for fitness, N.E.A.T plays a crucial role in overall health and weight management.By incorporating more N.E.A.T into your daily life, you can boost your metabolism, improve your health, and achieve your fitness goals.