BIG MISTAKE: Why people are too lazy to exercise

When I tally up how many of my friends and relatives exercise at least occasionally, it comes out to less than ten. It's more like six.

Not good.

Exercise is one of those things that constantly gets put on the back burner. For most people, it ranks low on the priority list, behind laundry, cleaning, dining out, and spending time with friends. What's more, people are naturally inclined to expend the least energy possible. Exercise involves some effort, and for many people it's just easier to plop down on the coach and reach for the potato chips.

I'm one of those who used to find any excuse in the book not to exercise:

"I'm tired"
"I'd rather stay home watching TV"
"I don't want to get all sweaty"
"It's too late to go today"
"I can always exercise later"
"I don't want to deal with traffic"
"Going to the gym is boring"
"I already ate"
"I have too much to do"

But I've drastically changed my habits over the last five or so years. I've made it a priority to go to the gym at least twice a week. Sure, there are weeks that go by where I don't show my face at the gym, but those are few and far between.

They say losing weight is 70% dieting and 30% exercising. While 30% might seem minuscule, it really isn't. The benefits of exercising can't be overstated. Not only has it been shown to be good for the heart, but also the mind -- studies show exercising can boost one's self-esteem and self-worth.

Whether you're aiming to lose weight or simply tone up, exercise does one a world of good. If you're avoiding going to the gym because you think it'll bore you, take your iPod or whatever you use to listen to music. You'll be amazed at how quickly time flies when you're exercising to music you enjoy. Otherwise, you can always engross yourself in a book.

Any excuse not to exercise -- ever -- is a weak one. Face it -- it's essential to good health. My suggestion is to start slowly and gradually work your way up. For example, start by doing 30 minutes of exercise one week, then do an hour the following week, two hours the week after that, and so on.

I'm on a diet as we speak and have already lost about 5 pounds. Needless to say, I couldn't have done it without a combination of healthy eating habits and gym time.

Don't put it off any longer. Start exercising today!

How often do you exercise? If you exercise little (or never), why is that? Would you be willing to start hitting the gym in the near future?

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