Kicking It Up a Notch

I cannot stress enough the benefits of fitness. People who are fit are less frequently sick, suffer from fewer middle-age illnesses, and live a higher quality of life than people who are not. They're capable of doing what they want with their bodies when they want to, whether that's playing in the company softball league or keeping up with their kids.

The important thing about becoming more active, especially when you've been barely active at all, is to start slow and be patient. It does take time to build up your endurance and strength, but it will happen with time.

Pick an activity that interests you, something that will keep you interested and that you'd enjoy, and just do it, but slowly. If you feel comfortable doing that, kick it up a notch, but only a notch. With time, you can find yourself running a 5K race or being a triathlete, and you will feel sooo good doing that!

Remember, as you become more active, those three elements of exercise - aerobic exercise, flexibility training and strength training - are all important and have their place in creating a healthy and fit you who can be comfortable in your own body. Do not neglect any one of them.