How can I live like a hunter-gatherer?

One of the best ways to reduce your risk of chronic disease and live a longer life may be to act like a hunter-gatherer.

Scientists recently analyzed the physical habits of our hunter-gatherer ancestors -- people who tended to engage in short bursts of physical activity (mostly outside) coupled with periods of rest -- and health experts agree we'd probably all be better off physically if we followed that example. In fact, our bodies may be genetically programmed for it.

Human beings lived for eons as hunter-gatherers, so it's not surprising that our bodies are built to thrive under physically demanding conditions outside. Ready to activate your hunter-gatherer genes? Here's a fitness plan that will help emulate the hunter-gatherer way:

• Hit the trails. Researchers estimate that hunter-gatherers walked between four and 10 miles a day just to find necessities! While you might not be able to hit that lofty mark, you could probably do a lot more than you're currently doing. Find ways to walk more during everyday tasks, and fit a daily walk into your schedule as well.
• Lift things. At least two to three times a week, you should do some strength training. Instead of carrying logs, carry groceries, laundry, kids and pets. Instead of stacking rocks, lift weights at home or at the gym. .
• Get your flex on. Activities like yoga, dancing, tai chi and gardening can help improve your flexibility -- something that hunter-gatherers had in spades.
• Do it outdoors. Exercising outside on natural surfaces (the ones we evolved with, like grass and dirt) works more muscles and boosts your balance.
• Work out with a buddy. You'll get the added benefit of mood-boosting social interaction.
• Mix it up. Once or twice a week, alternate short bursts of moderate- to high-intensity physical activity with periods of rest and recovery to challenge your heart and lungs. Follow harder workout days with easier workout days. Hunter-gatherers got lots of rest, relaxation, and sleep when recovering from physically demanding days.

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