Get Moving!

How much is enough? The bottom line is that, to achieve maximal gain, you need to exercise aerobically every day for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to an hour(especially if you need to lose weight).

* If you don't have tennis shoes or gym clothes, go to the mall and buy some gear to work out in. If you have the goods, you eliminate one daily excuse for not moving.

* Find the time that works best for you and schedule it in your calendar. And you must schedule it — a five- or ten-minute walk across the parking lot or to the corner store helps, but that's not your workout.

* Dress for success! Put your gym clothes on and lace up the shoes well before the appointed time to get you in the mood and spirit.

* Sign up for a class or buy home CDs, DVDs, or videotapes. Anything to get you moving!

* Choose an activity you enjoy.There are many activities to choose from and if you do something you like, you're more likely to stick with it.

* Find a partner who is at your fitness level and set dates to exercise together. That way, on days you feel like skipping, it will be much harder to do so, as you'll not only be letting yourself down, but a friend too.

* Vary your activities: mix aerobics, weight lifting, and balance and flexibility sessions throughout the week. It's the basics of keeping fit, but it is also less boring.

* Discover ways to minimize boredom that comes with the routine: try music, TV programs on fitness machines, podcasts or books or courses on tape to listen to while exercising.