techtip: SURF FOR HEALTH

SURF FOR HEALTH

We all want to be healthy and look fit, but we live in a world that makes us inactive and tries to convince us that unhealthy convenience foods are the easiest option. Many of us spend lots of time in front of a television or computer screen. Even when we aren’t watching a particular show or presentation, we view videos on our phones at the gas pump, in restaurants, or while we wait for the elevator. When we are bored, we have game systems and games on our phones that often keep us sitting right where we are. It seems like we are in front of digital screens almost 24 hours a day. So instead of letting technology make you a couch potato, how can you use it to help you become and stay fit?

The Problem

You want to stay healthy, but hours sitting in front of a computer or eating too much fast food are getting in your way.

The Fix

Enlist technology to get you moving and making healthier choices.

How to Do It

Learn how to filter out the fiction. When it comes to fitness and nutrition, there’s a lot of conflicting advice and bad information out there, and more than a few scams. Zero in on a few reputable, well-vetted Web sites. You can find everything from healthy menu plans to yoga training to fitness tips on the following Web sites and smart phone apps:
FITNESS WEB SITES
Site Name Web Address
FitDay fitday.com
fitness.com fitness.com
fitness partner primusweb.com/ fitnesspartner
Livestrong livestrong.com
Men’s Fitness mensfitness.com
Nutrition Data nutritiondata.self.com
WeightWatchers weightwatchers.com

Clear some floor space. Make some of the time you spend in front of a screen active time. The Internet can be a valuable ally if you’re struggling to find time to work out. Free Web sites like YouTube and online services like Netflix, which charges a low monthly fee, let you stream a huge variety of workout videos with no need to hit the gym.
HEALTH-RELATED PHONE APPS
App Name Function
FitStar Makes workout dynamic
Argus Tracks physical activity
Human Tracks casual activity
Fooducate Features shopping guide to help you buy good food
Diet Point Weight Loss Helps track food/calorie intake
Healthy Out Guide when eating out or getting takeout
Spark People Connects you to a range of health sites

Exergame. Video gaming systems like Xbox let you enjoy real-life workouts in the virtual world. Try Dance Dance Revolution or virtual baseball, bowling, boxing, golf, or tennis. While you’re at it, get your roommates or family members to join in.

EXTRA STYLE POINTS. Use your electronic calendar to send periodic alerts to your cell phone throughout your school and work day to take breaks or work out. When you are studying, working, or attending classes, it is very easy to forget to give your body time to be active. You don’t necessarily have to change clothes or go to the gym. Sometimes a brisk walk or 15 minutes of stretching and relaxed breathing can reset your body and your mind.