Keep Moving as Summer Winds Down & Football Season Begins

Summer is starting to wind down, which means the days of warm weather, outdoor activities, and long evenings outside are becoming more limited.

While we still have the opportunity, try to take advantage of it! Going for a walk, getting outside with the family, playing a sport, or simply spending a little more time moving throughout the day can make a big difference in how your body feels.

At the same time, football season is officially here, which means many of us are about to spend a lot of Sundays sitting on the couch watching games. There is absolutely nothing wrong with enjoying football, but sitting in the same position for several hours can leave your hips, back, neck, and shoulders feeling stiff.

Make Your Football Sundays a Little More Active

You don't need to miss the game or do a full workout. Use commercial breaks, halftime, or even a timeout as a reminder to get up and move for a couple of minutes.

Try these simple movements:

Take a Short Walk

• Get up during halftime or between games and walk around the house or outside for a few minutes. Even short periods of movement can help break up prolonged sitting.

Hip Flexor Stretch

• Take a half-kneeling position with one knee on the ground. Gently shift your hips forward while keeping your torso upright. Hold for 20–30 seconds on each side.

Thoracic Rotations

• Sit or stand tall and slowly rotate your upper body from side to side. This is a simple way to get your upper back moving after sitting for an extended period.

Figure-4 Stretch

• While seated, cross one ankle over the opposite knee and gently lean forward until you feel a stretch through the glute and hip. Hold for 20–30 seconds and switch sides.

You Don't Have to Choose Between Football and Movement

The goal isn't to turn your Sunday into a workout. It's simply to avoid spending the entire day in one position.

Stand up. Walk around. Stretch during halftime. Move your hips and upper back during commercial breaks. These small habits can add up and help you feel much better when Monday rolls around.

And while the weather is still nice, get outside and enjoy it! Your body was designed to move, so take advantage of every opportunity you have to do it.