The decision to carry out a physical fitness program whether it's home fitness, in a gym or some outdoor activity, cannot be taken lightly. It requires a lifelong commitment of time and effort. Exercise must become one of those things that you do without question, like bathing and brushing your teeth.

Any time is a good time to start. Being physically active and maintaining a healthy weight is good practice for all age groups. Make it a practice to get some exercise every day. Children, teens, adults, and seniors - all can improve their health and well-being and have fun by including moderate amounts of physical activity in their daily lives. Start easy - there’s nothing to be gained by rushing things. The real benefit is a life-long routine of physical fitness.

There are many different ways to go about it. Try for exercise routines that are varied. Try for a variety that will benefit all major muscle groups. Doing the same thing every day can be boring and is less beneficial. A good bench mark is about 30 minutes a day of moderate exercise. Less is ok - better than being sedentary. Exercising longer will reap more benefits.

Unless you are convinced of the benefits of fitness and the risks of unfitness, you will not succeed.

How to go about it
This is the firsr chapter of a book. as the author the story is up to you. The decision to be physically fit is the first step. It’s not about how you’re going to look next month but how much better you’re going to feel for the rest of your life. And how capable you will be to enjoy a lifestyle at what may now seem a long way off.

Patience is essential. Don’t try to do too much too soon and don’t quit before you have a chance to experience the rewards of improved fitness. You can’t regain in a few days or weeks what you have lost in years of sedentary living. Only in the movies does it happen!  But  the reality is that you can get it back if your persevere. And the prize is worth the price.

The more you know about the effects of exercise the more you will be motivated to maintain a personal physical fitness program. Take advantage of everything that will help you stay motivated. Enlist a friend to buddy with you on this adventure. Reward yourself for short term and long term accomplishments. Set goals and keep a diary - anything to be successful. The pay off is real.

On this site you will find articles that give guidelines that are intended for the average healthy adult. It will tell you what your goals should be and how often, how long and how hard you must exercise to achieve them. It also includes information that will make your workouts easier, safer and more satisfying. The rest is up to you.

Checking Your Health
If you're under 35 and in good health, you probably don't need to see a doctor before beginning an exercise program. But if you are over 35 and have been inactive for several years, you should consult your physician, who may or may not recommend a graded exercise test.

Other conditions that indicate a need for medical clearance:
High blood pressure.
Heart trouble.
Family history of early stroke or heart attack deaths.
Frequent dizzy spells.
Extreme breathlessness after mild exertion.
Arthritis or other bone problems.
Severe muscular, ligament or tendon problems.
Other known or suspected disease.

Vigorous exercise involves minimal health risks for persons in good health or those following a doctor’s advice.

You can start anytime in life and benefit.

Fitness - Let’s Get Going
A couple of thoughts on fitness and how to go about an exercise routine. The decision to take up an exercise program is the first step but how important is step 2?