Fitness as a goal is a good thing even though it means making lifestyle changes. Simply because it is something we can all reach.

Make a fitness goal that’s yours personally by keeping in mind the benefits that you wish to achieve. Remember, a goal is an end point, not a beginning, so work toward your goal gradually, with determination.

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.

Once you’re in better shape, you can gradually increase your time or distance or change to a more energetic activity.

If you’re ready to move up to more vigorous activity, remember that “no pain, no gain” isn’t exactly true. The best-laid plans of many a fitness program have been ruined by too much enthusiasm on the first day and sore muscles on the second.

Beginner’s enthusiasm can be short lived but enthusiasm built on cumulative successes

If you have cardiovascular disease, you should check with your physician before undertaking more vigorous activity. Likewise, if you’re a man over 40 or a woman over 50 with risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol or obesity, seek your doctor’s advice.

The key to a lifetime of fitness is consistency.

Here are some tips to help you make exercise a habit:
Choose an activity you enjoy.
Tailor your program to your own fitness level.
Set realistic goals.
Choose an exercise that fits your lifestyle.
Give your body a chance to adjust to your new routine.
Don't get discouraged if you don't see immediate results.
Don't give up if you miss a day; just get back on track the next day.
Find a partner for a little motivation and socialization.
Build some rest days into your exercise schedule.
Listen to your body. If you have difficulty breathing or experience faintness or prolonged weakness during or after exercise, consult your physician.

It’s a good idea to choose more than one type of exercise to give your body a thorough workout and to prevent boredom. Also, you might want to choose one indoor exercise and one outdoor activity to allow for changes in your schedule or for inclement weather.

Very few people live in a climate that’s temperate year–round. But weather extremes don’t have to interfere with your exercise routine if you make some minor adjustments.

Home fitness equipment in conjunction with simple exercises and free weights can make for a varied and effective workout routine, all within the comfort of your home.

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?