Technology is surrounding all of us, all of the time. Most people today have smart phones, portable tablets and laptops. These products are often referred to as the cause for our less active generation. In some ways this is correct but the opposite can also be true as there are an infinite number of apps and games that can get us up and moving to keep us healthy.
We may say things like, I don’t have time to work out, or it is not a convenient part of my busy day, however, this technology has made it convenient to exercise with suggested physical activity and healthy choices for every part of the day whether at work, home or on the go. Apps are available for many different parts of a healthy lifestyle including, eating healthy, physical activity workouts, stress release and many more. All literally at our fingertips.
Some of the most simple but best apps available are ones that can be downloaded onto our computers and phones. These apps have alarms that at various points throughout the day appear and remind us that we need to do something physically active. They can be set on a phone or computer with a note as to why the alarm is being set off. This can range from anything such as a simple stretch or getting up and going for a walk. These apps are free and consume nearly no storage space making them one of the best physical activity and healthy lifestyle apps available. An app such as Workrave is a window that stays open with a countdown to your next exercise break and then suggests various stretches and exercises to perform.
Another great resource at the tip of our fingers is healthy eating apps. These apps are available in a number of different forms. Certain ones are merely a database for finding a good quality restaurant when wanting to eat out, listing the best deals for both the wallet and the body’s needs. Other apps contain meal recipes that have been created under the guidelines for healthy eating and nutrient requirements. There are also the “super apps” which contain recipes, calorie counters and even exercise recommendations listing different types of exercises and how many calories they burn. Since our phone is always on us throughout the day these apps are easily accessible and possibly the best tool for those of us looking to lose some weight, adopt a healthier lifestyle and eating habits.
Next time we are in the app store looking for a game to play, search the healthy living apps and find your time better spent downloading an app that will help you lose that few extra pounds, stay in shape, and gain healthy eating habits. Search Livestrong and Nike for some of the best apps more related to working out and exercising and less diet focused. These apps are designed for everyone and although it may be overwhelming to see certain ones pertaining to running a marathon, there are numerous more pertained to the average person just looking to develop healthier habits and lifestyles.
Two of the best apps available for FREE:
1. Lose It
This app contains everything from meal recipes and calorie counters, to exercises and sporting activities and how many calories they burn. It is the perfect tracker with all of the calorie information already in it and available for addition to your daily total with a simple press of a button.
2. Good Food Near You
Having a GPS incorporated in the app this smart phone product is able to search your current location and find the healthiest options around. Clicking on the different food locations available also allows the user to view various menu items and calorie information. Once a place is decided upon let the map included in the app take you there.
Like us on facebook (Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team) and follow us on twitter (@MintoMapleton) for healthy living tips and information on upcoming programs and events in the area. For more information about any of the free services offered by the Minto-Mapleton Family Health Team, visit our website at www.mmfht.ca or call our Drayton office at 519-638-2110 or our Clifford office at 519-327-4777.
