There Are Many Good Reasons To Exercise

The day after Christmas, I put on my workout clothes, my running shoes, my new sports watch and headed out the door for a jog.
Now, I did not a bit more want to go outside in the cold gloomy air and jog than you would. I really liked the idea of plopping down on the couch with a good book in front of the gas logs, something there had not been time for since the beginning of December.
If I had given myself a chance to think about it, I could have thought of at least 1,000 reasons not to exercise that day, and the day after, and the day after, if you get my drift.
I did pretty well with my eating over the holiday season. However, I felt like a slug anyway.
Perhaps the travel and change of routine, coupled with eating foods that I usually do not eat, contributed to my sluggish feeling.
Who ever heard of a red velvet balls anyway? Oh well, I had to taste a few out of curiosity.
Just as I was about to go back inside my house and excuse myself to exercise later that day, the personal trainer in me came out.
Having exercised for more than 30 years of my life, it is now a habit, and I feel out of sorts without a daily dose of exercise. After a workout, my energy levels are high, and I am more disciplined in other areas of my life.
But more than all of that, I quickly reflect on all the physical benefits of exercise (I know I am a little odd, but it works for me). 
So do not think you are the only one that has trouble getting motivated at times to exercise.
You are not alone, but remember it is worth the effort.
If you could go to the pharmacy and get a pill that slows down the aging process; lowers your blood pressure; improves cholesterol levels; helps prevent heart disease, stroke and some cancers; improves cognitive (brain) function; help prevent type 2 diabetes; helps relieve low back pain; prevents osteoporosis; fights depression and anxiety; raises self-esteem; raises metabolism; helps you manage your weight and tone your body, wouldn’t you rush out and get that pill?
Who knows how much it would cost you? However, my suggestion is free and just requires an investment of time and effort.
Exercise is probably the single most important thing we can do to age successfully.
The very first step is to get a release from your physician to exercise. Then, begin by setting goals for yourself. The goals should be written.
Strive to make them realistic, measurable and attainable. Be sure your goals match your fitness level, taking into account any limitations you might have.
For instance, if you have never jogged before in your life, it is unrealistic to think you will be jogging five miles in two weeks.
Perhaps a better goal would be to walk two miles in four weeks. Or simply make a goal to become more active for the next 12 weeks.
Take that money you received for Christmas, buy yourself a pedometer and try to take 10,000 steps throughout your day. The payoff will be the many benefits listed above. Each week, I will discuss one benefit in detail.
Let’s work together as a team and accomplish our goals one day at a time.
We will call ourselves Team Fitness. E-mail me and let me know you are part of the team. Okay 2009 Team Fitness, we are on our way!

LINDA STOLLINGS is a personal fitness trainer in Bristol, Tenn. E-mail her at or visit http://www.fitprescriptions.com.