Exercise needn't be dull either. Do something you will enjoy like walking, cycling, swimming or dancing, or play a team game. Or perhaps join a fun class like salsa or belly dancing and go with a friend – it's much more fun with two. Try to exercise outdoors at least half the time. Vitamin D is vital for your heart, and for healthy bones, and is conveniently provided by the sun.
OK, I want to exercise. But how can I motivate myself?
You will know what motivates you but sometimes there is something out there that you may not have thought of. Consider the following ideas and build up a combination of factors that you can use to motivate yourself.
For many people the easiest way to get motivated is through competition.
This doesn't have to involve a league table or a national competition, simply find a partner or join a training group. If you prefer to exercise alone, keeping track of personal bests, a log of how many lengths you swam, how long you exercised for or how far you walked (a pedometer is a great help) is a good way to challenge yourself. Match those numbers – or beat them – the next time you go out.
Notice the 'feel better' effect of exercise. Take pictures - before and after photos can be a great encouragement. Why not look into the future? Seeing yourself in a few month's time looking healthy, hearing people comment on the 'new you', will help you feel now how it will feel then.
Knowing what you are working towards can be a rehearsal and helps you turn a goal into a reality. Set a realistic, achievable target such as walk three times a week, double the number of lengths you swim in one session at the pool or beat my personal best and make sure that you give yourself a reward when you reach your target.
What if I do?
Imagine the differences regular exercise will make to your life. What will you see? How will the world look different? What will you hear people saying? How will you feel about yourself, knowing that you have taken the decision, motivated yourself and done something positive?
How about getting started right now?