We all tend to make excuses as to why we do not exercise. Here are the most common:

Not enough time. Five minutes of stretching during the commercials counts as exercise. Taking a walk after dinner instead of watching a Seinfeld re-run for the 20th time works too. Housework, yard work, walking through the parking lot to the grocery store can all count as exercise. Take a closer look at your daily schedule and you can probably find a few minutes each day to incorporate exercise.

No energy left. Being tired comes from being out of shape and from a lack of physical activity. Starting with even small amounts of exercise will begin reducing your stress level, improving your sleep and increasing your energy level.

I’m in poor health. With very few exceptions, even people in very bad health can benefit from an exercise program. People who have had quadruple by-pass surgery are encouraged to start a program of walking as soon as possible. Diabetics are encouraged to exercise to help control weight and blood sugar. Back pain can be helped by walking and abdominal exercises. If you have any concerns about your health you should consult with your physician about what kind of exercise program to begin.

People will stare at me. Feeling self-conscious about exercise because you are older, don’t look athletic, or because you feel uncoordinated is not uncommon. If you are overweight, wear oversize workout clothes. You can also work out at home with an exercise video or stationary equipment such as a bicycle or treadmill. Many YMCA’s and Hospitals have exercise classes especially for beginning exercisers or people who are overweight. Check them out. Walking the dog (yours or your neighbor's) is also a great exercise that doesn’t even look like exercise!

I’m afraid I’ll hurt myself. The old idea of “no pain, no gain” just isn’t true. Studies have shown that moderate exercise has significant benefits for our health. If you want to do something more than walking and aren’t sure how or are afraid of getting hurt, it’s probably worth paying a trainer for a session or two to help you get started. Most health clubs and YMCA’s also offer training in how to use the machines and get started on a program as part of their membership. Exercise videos for beginners also offer tips on proper form and getting started.