• Walkng is a good form of exercisewalking image by Salem Alforaih from Fotolia.com
  
  Regardless of your age, numerous studies have shown exercise has benefits beyond just keeping you in shape. Exercise improves mood, increases immunity, prevents cancer and strengthens bones. Whether it's walking around the block or running a marathon, it's important to get and stay active. Keep in mind a few tips to guide you to your fitness goals.
  
  

Consult Your Doctor

• Most people are advised to see a doctor before beginning an exercise program. If you have a history of heart disease or other medical condition, are severely overweight or haven't been active for a while, consult a doctor about what you are capable of. Your doctor will monitor your heart and blood pressure and may test your overall strength to advise you how to begin.
  
  

Set Aside Time

• Schedule time to exercise or be active for at least 30 minutes each day. This activity can be taking a walk, lifting weights, going for a bike ride or working in the yard. If 30 minutes is too much at once, divide it up into 10-minute segments three times a day. Once 10 minutes feels easier, try for two 15-minute sessions. Eventually, you'll work up to 30 minutes. This is a minimum time; feel free to exercise longer if you're up to it.
  
  

Stick to a Routine

• Try to exercise at the same time every day. This helps establish it as a habit. Many people prefer morning exercise because they "get it over with" before other obligations fill their schedule. Others prefer exercising in the evening or afternoon when they feel more awake. Find a time that works for you and stick with it. Enter your exercise into your daily calendar to remind yourself it's time to get active.
  
  

Vary Your Routine

• Even if you absolutely love an activity, you will get bored with it if you do it every day. Try to walk one day, lift weights the next and go for a bike ride on pleasant days. The variety not only prevents boredom, but also works your muscles differently so you achieve overall fitness. Variety also helps prevent overuse injuries. Try to find indoor and outdoor activities so you can stay active regardless of the weather.
  
  

Have Fun

• You shouldn't dread exercise, and you shouldn't utter praises to higher beings when the 30 minutes are up. Find activities you enjoy and you will look forward to doing them. If you're a social butterfly, take an exercise class. If you love swimming, find a pool in your area. If you can't stand exercising inside, you aren't going to get use out of a gym membership. Exercise is meant to make you feel good, not miserable. Be willing to try something new.