The modern world is conditioned to be stationary: we wake up and scroll through our phones in bed, spend all day sitting behind a computer screen, and wind down in the evening by watching TV.

Although these are the societal habits most of us have been raised by, when was the last time you stopped to consider the impact that they are having on our health?

Many elements of our daily schedule seem out of our control, especially when we are at the mercy of our 9-5 job. Nevertheless, we are the champions of our own lives and have the power to make actionable changes that produce substantial results. Even the smallest adjustments in your daily routines can allow you to be more active which in the long run establishes a foundation for a healthy future.

Here are 5 actionable ways you can have a more active lifestyle:

1. Join a recreational sports league;

As children, we are encouraged to participate in extracurricular activities like team sports as a method of socializing, exercising, and perhaps even building towards a future college application. When we reach adulthood, these activities usually falter. Regardless, for those seeking ways to get moving and become involved in their community, there are always recreational sports leagues and events that encourage movement and teamwork.

2. Get a standing desk or treadmill desk

This hack will not be possible for people who work in a corporate office, but if you work from home, this could be an incredible way to add activity into your life. Standing desks or walking desks require us to be physically engaged in our tasks while still having the brainpower to focus on the work in front of us. Working out while working? Sign us up!

3. Sit on an exercise ball while you work

If you don’t have the luxury to alter the height of your desk, you may still have the option to choose your chair. Sitting on a well-inflated exercise ball while sitting at the desk is a great way to be active because you are required to engage and work your core as you steady yourself at the desk.

4. Combine your social hour with movement

Rather than meeting your friends at a bar or restaurant, electing for an active social gathering is a great way to bond with your loved ones while simultaneously adding movement to your schedule. You could try meeting your friends for a hike, swimming at the beach, or playing active games that get the body moving. Afterward, you’ll surely feel fulfilled!

5. Choosing the path of most resistance

Throughout the day, you are likely faced with options of directions and routes to get to your destination, but it is always a great idea to choose the path that requires the most effort. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. If you can, walk or ride your bike instead of driving. These small instances of movement make a grand impact down the line.

If you make a commitment to yourself to strive for an active lifestyle, you will be amazed at the results you will find. Not only will your physical health prosper, possibly causing you to lose weight or tone your muscles, but your mental health will flourish with the opportunity to establish routines of regular movement. For more tips to improve your health and create a more active lifestyle, check out Outrun Gravity for more information.