We all have our own excuses for not exercising. Some common ones are: I’m not in good enough shape to start exercising; I cannot do enough to make a difference; and, I don’t have time for a fitness routine. The first two examples are fallacies, which can be overcome by simply starting to exercise. While it may be difficult to sustain higher levels of activity if you are overweight and/or out of shape, not moving is just not the answer. Any level of activity trumps idleness any day. Start small by walking around the house, or parking a few more spaces from the store entrance when on errands. Literally every step you take is a step toward better overall health, and you will find that the more you do, the more you will be able to do – and the more you are able to do, the more you will want to do.

That last excuse, however, is far and away the most common. After all, in our busy, hectic lives, where are we going to find time to go to the gym? The fact is, some of us can’t, especially if the gym is across town in traffic, essentially doubling the time you would need to sacrifice for a workout. First, understand one thing: no matter what, it would be worth the sacrifice. Your health should be of optimal importance. Thankfully, though, there are viable options. You can work out at home. If you have a treadmill, bike or elliptical, spend 10 -30 minutes a day on it. No equipment? No problem! Fitness dvds offer an easy, pre-established routine that you can do any time in the privacy of your own home. Anything aerobic will do, and there are so many options to choose from. Walking and dance to yoga and tai chi, you can find the activity and level that is right for you.

If you are not the type to spend 20 minutes in front of the idiot box, you can always just crank the radio or your favorite cd and move to the music. Three songs are all it would take to boost your heart rate enough to reap the aerobic benefit. It’s all about finding your fitness niche; do what you enjoy. No matter what you choose to do, however, just do it. Also make sure that you are stretching properly for warm up and cool down, to avoid the possibility of injury while exercising.