My decision to write today's post was inspired by a comment left in response to my posting, "Fitness Personality."  In that post I neglected to address those individuals who hate to exercise, a category under which I know many people would claim they fall.  So, what are you to do if you don't like to exercise?  How do you get yourself to do something that you despise?  I offer some advice below.

• Make it informal.  If traditional modes of exercise bring about negative flashbacks to elementary school gym class, forgo them.  Health can be improved just by increasing your daily activity above and beyond what you are doing currently.  For instance, a grocery shopping trip is a great way to sneak in a little extra exercise.  Park further away from the entrance so that you have to walk an extra distance to and from the car.  Once in the store, before loading your cart, walk the perimeter of the store's interior, then begin shopping.
• Make it fun.  If you don't enjoy it, you won't do it.  Make a "game" out of it.  For instance (going back to the grocery shopping example), before walking the perimeter of the store give yourself a challenge, such as trying to make it around the store before the last customer in line is waited upon.  Or, see how many times you can make it around the store before the last customer in line is checked out.
• Make it social.  Invite friends and family to join you in a walk around the block after dinner.  It can be a good way to catch up on what happened during the day.
• Put it in writing. Journal your adventure and share your writings with others (through a blog perhaps?) who may learn from your experience.

You do not have to exercise for prolonged periods of time or engage in traditional forms of activity to get health benefits.  As little as 10 minutes at a time, performed at least 3 times throughout the day can have a protective effect.  The point is to reduce the time you spend sitting and to increase the time your body is moving.

Are you someone who doesn't like to exercise, but has found ways to motivate yourself to do it?  I would like to hear your thoughts and suggestions. Comment below so that we may all benefit.

Note:  Before beginning an exercise program or increasing the intensity level of a current routine, a physician's approval should be obtained, especially for older adults and those at risk for or who currently have chronic health conditions.