How a Bus Ride Makes You Fit

Not getting the recommended 30 minutes of exercise each day? Then take the bus.

Yep, a little public transportation may be just the ticket to getting your body moving. Because although your body doesn't need more stationary bench time at the bus stop, research shows that people who use public transportation tend to exercise more.

Working In Your Walk
The key is all about how public-transportation lovers get to the bus stop or train station. Most of them tend to walk or ride their bikes. And in a recent study, those who regularly used public transit -- and walked to access it -- were three times more likely than car commuters to meet the Surgeon General's exercise recommendations (30 minutes a day, 5 days a week). Adding this minor amount of exercise to everyday life is enough to help you not only shed pounds but also lower your risk of a host of diseases, like heart disease. (No time to exercise? The YOU Docs have ideas on how you can change that.)

Added Incentive
Public transit is a win-win situation when it comes to managing your time and money as well. It might increase your overall commute slightly, but you save yourself from having to make a trip to the gym or figure out another time to squeeze in a walk. And let's not forget the money you'll save on fuel as well as the reduced wear and tear on your car. If your budget is too tight for a monthly transit pass, see whether your employer will sponsor public-transit passes for staff. Study participants who worked for companies with public-transit subsidies were even more likely to enjoy a big jump in their activity levels. (Turn household chores into exercise with these tips.)

Walking is the easiest exercise. Use these five motivators to make it your new habit.