Despite what they’d have you believe, your local gym isn’t the only place where legitimate exercise happens. In fact, in and around your house is a circuit-training course waiting to happen. The effectiveness of these exercise opportunities may surprise you. String a few together each day, and you’ve got a homemade exercise program that even Richard Simmons would dance about.

Walking

There are plenty of opportunities throughout your day where walking short distances to accomplish certain tasks can replace more sedentary alternatives. For instance, when you’re watching TV, place the remote beside the TV, and get up and walk over to change the channel. While you’re out, find the farthest parking space and make a little walk for yourself that way. Take the stairs instead of elevators. Walk instead of driving down to the corner store to pick up milk and bread.

Give your care some personal attention

No one—not even the highest tech automatic carwash—does a better job of cleaning your car than you, a bucket of suds, and a big microfiber towel. Not only can you pay extra attention to those stubborn bugs and sap, you’ll also work up a light sweat with all the “wax on, wax off” movements. Go ahead. Put some muscle into it. You’ll keep a few bucks in your pocket and, over time, drop a few pounds off your waistline.

Get into a sport

Your high school varsity jacket may be in mothballs, but that doesn’t mean the time has passed for you to be athletic. It could be softball, tennis, golf, swimming, or cycling, but whatever it is, make sure it’s fun and make sure you do it on a regular basis. Consistency is key!

Figure out what you’re burning

There are numerous other activities you can do to burn the calories. Check them out and find out how many calories you’ll burn by participating.