Incidental Activity and Planned Exercise for Weight Loss

By: Scottsdale Weight Loss Center
Published: May 30, 2021
Person walking up an escalator.

When you’re active, your body uses more calories which helps you maintain a healthy weight. To lose weight, you need to burn more calories than you consume. Regular activity is a fundamental component of any successful weight loss program.

There are two primary forms of physical activity, and both can help you control your weight. These include incidental activity and planned exercise.

What is Incidental Activity?

Incidental activity refers to any small form of movement that you choose throughout the day. This form of activity doesn’t happen at the gym but instead relies on your daily choices.

Examples include:

  • Taking the stairs instead of the elevator
  • Walking instead of driving
  • Playing a yard game instead of a board game with the kids
  • Walking the dog instead of letting him roam the yard
  • Using a stand-up desk for work
  • Moving while watching TV

Incorporating more incidental activity into your day is one way to create a more active lifestyle.

Understanding Planned Exercise

Planned exercise refers to organized activity that you engage in to work out. There are three primary forms of exercise:

  • Aerobic or cardiovascular activity: This includes exercises like walking, running, swimming, or cycling
  • Strength training or muscle building: This includes bodyweight exercises like push-ups and sit-ups, as well as weight lifting.
  • Flexibility training or muscle stretching: This includes activities like yoga, Pilates, and basic stretching.

Most people think of planned exercise when they think of physical activity. You can exercise at your local gym or community center, or in the comfort of your own home. Explore your options and find a workout that you enjoy. This will encourage you to exercise more often, which is important to any weight loss program.

Get Moving!

Incidental activity doesn’t replace planned exercise, but these two forms of activity can work together. Engage in both to increase your physical activity level. By just standing up and moving, you can start being active at any moment you choose.

 

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Everything perfect
Andi Kate profile picture
Andi K
3 days ago
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I landed at Scottsdale Weight Loss 13 years ago and lost 50 pounds….regained 10 and then lost them again, plus another 20. It is a great program, and all the professionals are amazing and caring.
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Mj W
9 days ago
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SWL has been a God send to me! Dr. Guzman & staff especially Lilia & Bianca! They’re so supportive & professional I have lost approx 50 pounds over the year at my own pace.
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Donna L
11 days ago
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Great place 30 lbs.and counting thank you And now it is over 40 lbs. and counting thank you great job
John Janovic profile picture
John J
27 days ago
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I cannot say enough wonderful things about Dr Robert Ziltzer! He helped me reach my ideal weight and more importantly maintain it for over 2 years. He has also helped me keep my blood pressure exactly where my internist wanted it. Dr Ziltzer is not only exceptional in weight management but also a truly gifted internet’s. His knowledge, kindness, and dedication are remarkable. I am deeply grateful for his care and recommend him whole heartedly!
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Merle S
34 days ago
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The staff at the Phoenix office are great! My experience with Dr deGuzman has been wonderful. Miriam has always been very helpful and makes the office visits pleasant and personal. The medical assistants have always been professional and great to help meet my goals.
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Paula S
37 days ago
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I really felt comfortable with Kristen at my initial appointment. Everyone at the center was caring and friendly, from Bianca, at the front desk, to Lily, who is the MA. Kristen listened to my frustrations and prior disappointments about what has not worked, and is confident that she can help me achieve my goals of weight loss. I am looking forward and excited to see the success I will attain.
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Joyce K
44 days ago
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My weight loss is going well because of Scottsdale Weight Loss Center. I couldn’t do it without them
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Robert D
46 days ago
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Amazing staff and great program! Feeling great!
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Brian H
48 days ago
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I'd lost 20 pounds on my own and struggled to keep it off. I decided GLP-1 meds were the next step in losing more and keeping it off. I wanted a medical doctor supervised program and chose SWLC. I am so very glad I did! The team in Glendale is so supportive and kind; and when I feel discouraged, they pick me up with positive energy and input. They really do a great job with encouragement all the time. 6 weeks in I've lost 17 pounds, and am approaching weight loss with a very new perspective. Also knowing that when I reach my target goal, they'll be there through maintenance and beyond is encouraging as well. Good to not feel alone on this journey.
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Stephanie P
62 days ago
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They have encouraged and been there through every tough situation. Definitely the team to lean on.
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Theresa G
67 days ago
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Everyone is pretty amazing but Kim the NP is absolutely one of the best practitioners I’ve ever met !
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Mary K
68 days ago
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