What type of activity are we talking about? Nothing that is going to hurt...nothing that is even going to be very strenuous. The physical activities you should consider, especially at first, involve doing what you normally do, but doing it a little less efficiently...spending a little more energy on it in the process. For example:

Take a walk to the store. Have an errand to run? Why not walk to the store instead of driving? Giving the car a rest can give you some energy and break up your day, too.

Get in step. Use the stairs instead of escalators, up and down, even for just a flight or two.

Let your legs do the talking. Rather than using the intercom or the phone, take a walk down the hall to communicate with coworkers in person.

Get out of your seat. Stand up while you're talking on the phone, or riding the bus. It burns a lot more calories. Think how many you would burn if you reduced your "sitting time" 50%!

Give up the best parking spot. Park at the far end of the lot, and take a short hike to shopping.

Get off the bus...one stop earlier, and walk the rest of the way.

Do it yourself...Instead of asking your kids to get you this or that, get it yourself.

Don't take short cuts...take the long way. Cross at the light instead of in the middle of the street. Take the front door and walk around instead of using the side or back door.

Catch up on a nagging chore. Cleaning out that closet, or the garage, or that scary corner of the basement can be great physical activity—and you'll be proud of yourself! Just look at the calories you can burn doing simple daily activities: