Steps to a higher level of fitness

It is difficult to fit exercise into a hectic, busy life! But, health is of utmost importance. Without your health, no amount of success or money is fulfilling. So, with that in mind and realizing that only action can achieve results, you may as well get started. Once you do, you may find that fitness isn't as hard as you might think. Give it some time--you may even begin to like it! Health professionals have documented evidence that increased activity can improve health and decrease the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure. Isn't your health worth some exertion on your part? Here are some basics. Really, this is all there is to it--if done on a consistent basis. Add activity-- gradually and progressively-- at least 30 minutes of a medium level activity to your day. Medium level activity is nothing more than a brisk walk. A good place to begin is simply to get up during TV commercials and move your body a bit. Watch food intake -- increased daily activity does not give you liberty to eat unhealthy or to forget that calories count. For every additional 100 calories you eat, 15-20 minutes of physical activity is necessary to burn them off. Keep track of this daily activity so that you know how it affects you and your weight. You may need to increase activity to 60 minutes in order to lose or maintain weight. Keep in mind that you do not have to do all of this activity at one time. Have a goal - a modest goal is all it takes. Commit to 4 weeks of increased activity and calorie watching. Trust me--you will be glad you took the time to work toward fitness!