5 Tips For the Gamer to Stay in Shape
Whether its consoles or your PC, if you're a game fan, you spend a lot of time on your bum.
This doesn't mean you have to be fat and out of shape.
There are many great, easy ways to stay in shape while still enjoying your favorite hobby- video games.
The misconception that gamers are all fat and lazy is one big downfall in the gaming industry but many gamers and their families know that this isn't true.
Depending on how much of your free time is devoted to your gaming hobby, you may have to make an effort to improve your health and fitness levels.
(These tips are designed mainly for adult gamers who manage their own lives.
If you are the parent of a child who plays video games, you should do your part to help them get the physical exercise they require for a healthy life as well.
) Avoid fast food and "quick foods" - While it may be tempting to order pizza, yet again, your body will thank you for some healthier eating habits.
Many gamers get so wrapped up in their game play that they forget to eat, or they don't stop to make healthy foods.
There's nothing wrong with eating out now and again but you should try to avoid it on a day-to-day basis.
Frozen foods and over-processed foods are also poor for your health when eaten on a regular basis.
You could improve your dietary habits by planning ahead and shopping for healthy foods in quick and easy-to-make packages.
You might prepare meals ahead of time before your gaming session begins so it's easier to stop and grab something healthy to eat instead of reaching for the junk food.
Perform chores- We all have household chores that need done and while you may not realize it, they actually provide you with a decent amount of physical activity.
Take breaks in between your gaming sessions to vacuum the floors, take out the trash, walk the dog, mow the lawn and perform other household chores on a regular basis.
This break keeps your blood flowing and gives you needed cardiovascular exercise as well.
Exercise during your work day- Depending on your job, there are many ways to get some physical activity in during work hours.
Even if you have a desk job or other sedentary occupation.
Maybe you can go for a walk during your lunch break or take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Adjust your modes of transportation - You may decide to walk or take a bike for short trips instead of taking the car.
You can also get off the bus a couple of blocks before your regular stop or park further down in the shopping center parking lot.
There are many ways in your daily modes of transportation that you can get a bit extra exercise.
Get to bed on time- Even though its tempting to stay up all night and get that last level you are so close to, take your butt to bed.
Lack of proper sleep can actually make your body gain weight.
Plus it increases stress and weakens your immune system.
While game playing is very enjoyable, there are times when you need to put down the controller.
Don't worry, your X-Box, PlayStation and Wii will be there when you get back.
Just a 15 minute break to walk to the mailbox or around the block can make a big difference.
If you are a PC gamer, remember that sitting for long periods of time or staring at a computer monitor for long periods of time can be harmful to your health.
Take frequent breaks to walk around.
If you tend to play for long periods of time, you might also want to get ergonomic accessories and adjust your monitor settings to be easier on your eyes.
When you take time to keep your health in mind, there is absolutely no reason why you can't enjoy your video gaming on a regular basis.
This doesn't mean you have to be fat and out of shape.
There are many great, easy ways to stay in shape while still enjoying your favorite hobby- video games.
The misconception that gamers are all fat and lazy is one big downfall in the gaming industry but many gamers and their families know that this isn't true.
Depending on how much of your free time is devoted to your gaming hobby, you may have to make an effort to improve your health and fitness levels.
(These tips are designed mainly for adult gamers who manage their own lives.
If you are the parent of a child who plays video games, you should do your part to help them get the physical exercise they require for a healthy life as well.
) Avoid fast food and "quick foods" - While it may be tempting to order pizza, yet again, your body will thank you for some healthier eating habits.
Many gamers get so wrapped up in their game play that they forget to eat, or they don't stop to make healthy foods.
There's nothing wrong with eating out now and again but you should try to avoid it on a day-to-day basis.
Frozen foods and over-processed foods are also poor for your health when eaten on a regular basis.
You could improve your dietary habits by planning ahead and shopping for healthy foods in quick and easy-to-make packages.
You might prepare meals ahead of time before your gaming session begins so it's easier to stop and grab something healthy to eat instead of reaching for the junk food.
Perform chores- We all have household chores that need done and while you may not realize it, they actually provide you with a decent amount of physical activity.
Take breaks in between your gaming sessions to vacuum the floors, take out the trash, walk the dog, mow the lawn and perform other household chores on a regular basis.
This break keeps your blood flowing and gives you needed cardiovascular exercise as well.
Exercise during your work day- Depending on your job, there are many ways to get some physical activity in during work hours.
Even if you have a desk job or other sedentary occupation.
Maybe you can go for a walk during your lunch break or take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Adjust your modes of transportation - You may decide to walk or take a bike for short trips instead of taking the car.
You can also get off the bus a couple of blocks before your regular stop or park further down in the shopping center parking lot.
There are many ways in your daily modes of transportation that you can get a bit extra exercise.
Get to bed on time- Even though its tempting to stay up all night and get that last level you are so close to, take your butt to bed.
Lack of proper sleep can actually make your body gain weight.
Plus it increases stress and weakens your immune system.
While game playing is very enjoyable, there are times when you need to put down the controller.
Don't worry, your X-Box, PlayStation and Wii will be there when you get back.
Just a 15 minute break to walk to the mailbox or around the block can make a big difference.
If you are a PC gamer, remember that sitting for long periods of time or staring at a computer monitor for long periods of time can be harmful to your health.
Take frequent breaks to walk around.
If you tend to play for long periods of time, you might also want to get ergonomic accessories and adjust your monitor settings to be easier on your eyes.
When you take time to keep your health in mind, there is absolutely no reason why you can't enjoy your video gaming on a regular basis.
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