Daily movement vs. formal exercise: what’s the difference?

Daily Movement vs. Formal Exercise: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to getting fit, we often hear keywords like “exercise” and “movement.” But what’s the difference between these two, and why should we care? Let’s dive into the topic!

What is Daily Movement?

Daily movement, also called non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT), refers to the little things we do, well, daily! Activities like walking around the grocery store, cleaning the house, taking the stairs, or fidgeting in your seat are all examples of daily movement. These may not feel like “working out,” yet they all contribute to our overall fitness and calorie-burning throughout the day.

What is Formal Exercise?

Formal exercise, on the other hand, is the kind of activity we typically imagine when we think of “working out.” Whether it’s lifting weights, running, or participating in a fitness class, these activities are structured, intentional, and typically require a certain level of effort and exertion.

Daily Movement vs. Formal Exercise: The Skinny

Both daily movement and formal exercise play crucial roles in our health and fitness. While formal exercises are organized and intentional, aiming to improve specific fitness aspects like strength or cardiovascular endurance, daily movements contribute to our overall activity level and calorie burn.

The key is to find a balance between the two. If you’re tied to a desk job, make sure you take time throughout the day to move – stand up, walk around, stretch. If you’re doing plenty of daily movement but not enough formal exercise, find a class or a personal training regimen that fits your lifestyle and goals.

Want to Know More?

If all this talk about movement and exercise has you wondering how to optimize your fitness, you’re in the right place. At XM Xtra Mile Fitness, we can help you understand how daily movement and formal exercise fit into your life, and how to make the most of both.

Click here to schedule a FREE No Sweat Intro. This consultation with one of our coaches opened your path in understanding your unique fitness needs and goals better. There’s no pressure and no sweat (seriously, you won’t sweat a bit).

Start your journey today and make your miles extra!