Start Your Vacuum!
Vacuuming works all sorts of muscles in your upper body. And when you vacuum the stairs, you're getting your legs into the action, too.
Get on the Floor
Mopping floors for 30 minutes can burn 143 calories for a 140-pound person. That's actually more calories burned than walking for the same amount of time at a 3.5-mph pace. For extra credit (and extra burned calories), get down on your hands and knees and really scrub.
Wash Those Windows
It might be too cold in some parts of the country to wash the outsides of your windows, but you still can wash the insides. Window washing is great for toning arms and shoulders.
Go on Laundry Duty
Make this the year you finally get your laundry room in order by doing all the laundry possible and putting it all away in its proper place. With the bending, twisting and stair climbing, laundry can be a full-body workout. Stand up when folding your clothes and don't forget to break out the iron and ironing board. The motions used for folding and ironing will help tone muscles in your legs, arms and back.
Add Some Motion
When it comes to chores like dusting, doing the dishes or other stand-in-place activities, kick up the aerobic activity by adding in some squats or walking in place.
Keep On Keeping On
Remember, even moderate exercise can help your health. And when you combine exercise with housecleaning, you have two great things to feel good about.
