Many of us struggle to find time for fitness, but staying active can help improve your mood and your sleep as well as lower your risk for many health issues. 

These tips can help you find quick, fun activities that can be a regular part of your busy day. Plus, learn about BCBSRI resources for saving money on fitness.

1. Break up your exercise.
The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services recommends that adults get at least 2 and a half hours of moderate exercise a week, such as brisk walking, as well as strengthening activities twice a week, like lifting weights or doing push-ups. You might find that much easier to do a few minutes at a time. Take a break from working to take a short walk. Do squats while you’re watching television. Wind down before bed with yoga. 

Many wearable fitness trackers can alert you if you haven’t moved enough in an hour, which can be really helpful. 

Make it easier:
If you don’t have a fitness tracker, you can get discounts as a BCBSRI member—as well as discounts on athletic shoes, fitness streaming services, fitness equipment, and more through our Blue365 program. You'll find deals from 45+ national retailers. Sign up at blue365deals.com/bcbsri.¹ 

2. Focus on how exercise can improve your well-being. 
Too often we think of exercise as a chore. The key is finding activities that you enjoy. So if you don’t like running or using an elliptical machine, don’t. Maybe dance-based fitness is right for you. Or playing basketball.

When you can, getting outside to walk or do another activity can be important for your mental health. 

Make it easier:
BCBSRI members can take free in-person fitness classes at Your Blue Store^SM locations in Cranston, East Providence, Lincoln, Narragansett, and Warwick. Sign up for a class at bcbsri.com/events. All fitness levels are welcome. 

3. Use the buddy system. 
If you have kids, being active together is good for everyone. You can do some hula hooping, have a dance party, or try a superhero workout video.

If you don’t have a family member in your household to be active with, you can get support from friends—either through an app that lets you do team challenges or just by deciding to do certain exercises each day and holding each other to it. 

Make it easier: Looking for new places to be active? Find a state park near you.
 

¹© 2000‐2025 Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association (BCBSA) – All Rights Reserved. The Blue365 program is made available by BCBSRI in conjunction with the BCBSA. The BCBSA is an association of independent, locally operated Blue Cross and Blue Shield Plans. Blue365® offers access to savings on items that members may purchase directly from independent vendors, which are different from items that are covered under the policies with BCBSRI, its contracts with Medicare, or any other applicable federal healthcare program. The products and services described herein are neither offered nor guaranteed under BCBSRI’s contract with the Medicare program. In addition, they are not subject to the Medicare appeals process. Any disputes regarding these products and services may be subject to BCBSRI’s grievance process. BCBSA may receive payments from Blue365 vendors. Neither BCBSA nor BCBSRI recommends, endorses, warrants, or guarantees any specific vendor, product, or service available under or through the Blue365 Program.

²Not all exercises are suitable for everyone and any exercise program could result in injury. Always consult with your physician before beginning an exercise program, especially if you have an existing health condition.