by Mario Carini

Created on: July 20, 2010   Last Updated: August 07, 2010

Simply put, exercise has so many benefits that can impact the life and health for everyone. But in today's world, finding the time to get in exercise is not always easy. The daily pressures of work and family life combined with long established sedentary habits means that many simply don't have the incentive to start and keep to a healthy exercise plan.

Exercise conjures up the idea that to do any good, you need to work up a real sweat. But few desire to run a marathon to get any benefits. But you don't need six pack abs to benefit from exercise.

Marathons and professional training is not what exercise is about. If you're 50, you can't expect to look like Mr. Universe. But you can stay in good shape by taking a little time to get in some quick exercises no matter how busy you may be. 

Walk Your Way to Health

Walking is the simplest way to get and stay in shape. A twenty minute daily walk with the dog, your spouse or your children every day can do your health wonders. Exercise at home can be turned into a fun activity.And there are many methods to stay in shape, whether that means gardening or cleaning house. Many mothers join walking groups to take their baby strollers through a park or walk with a group at a shopping mall. Museums, amusement parks, zoos, camping are all activities that help improve circulation for cardiovascular health.

Work life presents many other opportunities. Cut down the lunch hour to take a leisurely stroll around the company building. When arriving for work, park your car furthest away from the office and walk the distance. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Personally deliver a memo instead of faxing it to another floor. Use your cubicle to do leg stretches and lift a few weights you bring along.

Go Swimming

Public pools and wave pools can be fun activities for the whole family. If you're handicapped with limited mobility, join a group of seniors and exercise in the pool. The buoyancy of water puts less stress on joints but can still improver circulation and health. Summer means fun on the beach for volleyball, softball, throwing the Frisbee and running through the surf instead of lounging all day in a beach chair.

Yoga and Tai Chi

You don't need to bend your body into a pretzel, but yoga, tai chi and many simple exercises improve circulation and mobility. You can do them alone or with a group. 

Be Imaginative

Look for every opportunity to stay active. Time on your hands is a bonus. Use it for activities like volunteer work. Collecting for charity,  serving dinners at the local soup kitchen or helping seniors cope with their disabilities are all good ways to improve your community involvement and get in exercise.

You don't need the physique of a bodybuilder, but the mere act of using those few free minutes of time you have available can translate to years of healthy living.

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