Timely Exercise Tips

• Get a workout buddy. It's easy to avoid exercise when you don't have to answer to anyone. Find a pal to join in on your workouts and you won't back out as readily. In addition, exercising with others can turn fitness into a social activity.
• Start slow. Many people give up on exercise because they take on too much too soon and are physically overwhelmed. It's important to start slowly when you begin any type of fitness routine. Re-evaluate your past attempts at exercise, see why you may have strayed, and start again slowly.
• Mix it up. Folks often become bored with their workouts and give up on exercise. Beat the doldrums by switching an aspect of your routine. Find new routes to walk or try a few different forms of fitness and rotate among them.
• Sign up for classes. If you can't find the time to work out on your own, consider structured activities such as aerobic classes or dance lessons. Because the classes are scheduled in advance, you're more likely to plan your time around them.

Article first published in Taste of Home's Light & Tasty magazine.