NonExercise

Nonexercise refers to physical activity that is not part of structured exercise or planned workouts. In exercise science, the related concept non-exercise activity thermogenesis (NEAT) describes the energy expended for all activities that are not sleeping, eating, or intentional exercise. NEAT encompasses a broad range of daily movements and tasks, from fidgeting and posture changes to walking, standing, chores, and occupational activities.

Examples of nonexercise activity include walking between rooms, taking the stairs, cooking, cleaning, gardening, and standing while working. Even small, spontaneous movements contribute to NEAT, and the total energy cost can accumulate substantially over the course of a day. NEAT varies widely between individuals and can be influenced by occupation, culture, environment, clothing restrictions, and personal habits.

NEAT is an important contributor to total daily energy expenditure and can affect weight management and metabolic health. People with higher NEAT levels may burn more calories throughout the day, independent of deliberate workouts. However, the health impact of NEAT depends on the overall pattern of activity, duration, intensity, and consistency, and measurements can be imprecise outside controlled settings.

Measuring NEAT typically involves indirect calorimetry, accelerometry, or detailed activity logs, each with limitations. In practice, strategies to increase NEAT—such as using stairs, standing or walking during work, and incorporating short activity breaks—are commonly recommended to complement structured exercise, particularly for those with limited time or mobility for formal workouts.