by: Hank Lunton

If you are like most people, you've been thinking about starting an exercise program to get yourself into shape. Many people spend more time thinking about exercising than actually doing it. However, getting going now, no matter what your age, is crucial in retaining good health. Starting a new exercise program is a lot less scary and difficult than you think.

Before starting any new exercise program, it is very important to speak with your doctor. He or she will be able to advise you on the best approach to take and if the planned program is safe for you. You don't want to start exercising to better your body only to find out you did more harm than good.

Think about activities that you like when you start making your exercise plan. As an example, if you hate running, then by all means don't have it be part of your program. There would be no better way to guarantee failure than to take on an exercise that you already dislike. The more you like what you do, the more apt you are to continue.

If you Like to swim or even go cycling then you should definitely include these activities in your exercise routine and do it at least thrice a week. It may not sound much of an exercise program since you like swimming and cycling anyways. There may be times when and you don't want to cycle outdoors, because of bad whether then to finish that days exercise routine you can do the bike routine in your local gym. You can use a stationary bike until you want to venture outdoors again. Begin the work on your exercise routine in a gradual and phased manner. If you haven't exercised in a while you don't want to hurt yourself. Begin by say biking for 20-30 minutes and then increase the time gradually.

Be sure to always challenge yourself when exercising. If you have been biking the same trail for a few weeks and you find it quite easy, try something with some steeper grades, or a longer trail. If you're swimming, add some more laps, or try a new stroke. Timing yourself is another great way to make sure you're getting a good workout.

To keep the exercise challenge alive, try adding new and more physical activities to the routine. More over new activities will exercise different body parts. For example if all the exercise you do is biking then your legs will definitely become strong but what about the health/toning of rest of your body? Adding weight training few times in a week to your exercise routine is important because after 20 years of age one starts to loose muscle mass.

Many people are leery of going to a gym, and using all those confusing weight machines. As an alternative get yourself a set of free weights and a book on simple weight training. You can workout almost every muscle group without the use of expensive machinery. Just be sure to follow all instructions carefully as it can be easy to hurt yourself.

It is always more interesting and motivating to have a workout friend/buddy. And if it is somebody who is also planning to start a workout routine, then you must try to coordinate your schedules. Because working out along with somebody is much more fun.

So remember, find an exercise that you like and start your program gradually. If you suddenly start working out five days a week it will be too much and you won't stick with it. You might just begin by walking. That in itself is helping your body get fit. Practice good eating habits as well. This combination will help you be strong and healthy. Don't forget that visit to the doctor before you start.