Many of us often wonder if daily chores at home are enough to keep us healthy. Sweeping, mopping, washing dishes – these tasks keep us moving, but do they really count as exercise? According to AIIMS doctor Priyanka Sehrawat, the answer is that there’s no substitute for real, structured exercise.
In her latest video, Dr Sehrawat addresses this common misconception. She says, “Many people have messaged me about exercise. Whenever we tell our mom that she should do some exercise, she says – I work all day at home, so I already get my exercise. Today, this video is for exactly that.”
Daily Household Chores Keep You Active, But They’re Not Enough
Dr Sehrawat explains that household activities do increase movement but usually remain low-intensity. Low-intensity exercises slightly raise your heart rate and include tasks like standing while washing dishes, sweeping, mopping, or walking slowly around the house. These activities allow you to talk or even sing comfortably while performing them, making them convenient but not enough for full fitness.
Even though chores keep you active, she emphasises that relying solely on them is not enough for maintaining heart health or preventing conditions like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Why Structured Exercise Is Essential
Exercise can be low, moderate or high intensity. Moderate-intensity activities push your heart rate higher (about 75% above your baseline), while high-intensity exercises like jogging, running, dancing, or cycling increase oxygen consumption and heart rate significantly. During high-intensity exercise, speaking comfortably becomes difficult and palpitations rise.
Dr Sehrawat highlights that health guidelines recommend adults do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week or an equivalent in high-intensity activity. She says, “For preventing high blood pressure, diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes, a half-hour brisk walk every day is essential.”
To sum it up. household chores keep you moving, but they cannot replace structured exercise. A consistent routine of moderate or high-intensity activity ensures your heart, lungs and muscles stay strong. So, next time you think scrubbing floors counts as your workout, remember that your body still needs proper exercise to stay fit and healthy.
Disclaimer: This article shares general information only. It is not a substitute for medical advice. The tips and methods mentioned are suggestions, not confirmed facts. DNP India does not confirm or deny these claims. Please consult a doctor before trying any treatment, diet, or medication.
