According to Sir Isaac Newton, “A body at rest tends to stay at rest. A body in motion tends to stay in motion.” I can’t tell you how many New Year’s resolutions I’ve made over the years promising to exercise more. They are made with the best of intentions and by January 5th or so, I am back on the couch, clicker in hand. My body prefers to be at rest.

Our lives have become ones of sitting and watching. Many of the problems associated with being heavy are actually due to being still. One does not have to join a gym (with mirrors everywhere it seems) to get the benefits of exercise. Studies have shown that mild exercise has health benefits and the “No Pain, No Gain” mantra is not true!

It’s about getting started. Becoming more active is one of the healthiest things you can do for your body. I not saying you need to revisit your nightmares about high school gym class, just find an activity that you like. Equally important is scheduling time for you. If you don’t set aside the time, it won’t happen.

Once you get started, you will actually begin to look forward to it. Hard to believe, but it’s true. Once we incorporate healthy changes in our lives, they begin to become habits. The American Academy of Family Physicians reports that it takes only 21 days to change a bad habit into a good one. So, put down the clicker!

Benefits of exercise

There are physical, emotional and spiritual benefits of exercise. These are available to everyone, regardless of size. Among the physical gains can be lowered cholesterol and blood pressure. Increased mobility will generally improve flexibility and energy level. And it can be fun.

Dress for success

Many companies now make comfortable and fashionable plus-size active wear. You can look stylish and feel comfortable, no matter what activity you choose. Get yourself appropriate footwear and realize that it will wear out. If you are walking, shock absorbing insoles can make you more comfortable. They will also need to be replaced as they lose their ability to absorb shock.

Find a fun activity

Almost an activity that gets you out and about is beneficial. Figure out what gives you joy and do that.

Exercise (think movement) does not have to be hard or boring. Walking is an activity, which you can tailor to your desire. Some people like to walk outdoors, while some people like to walk indoors (indoor malls are great for this). Start at a comfortable speed and distance and don’t overdo. Walk with a friend or walk alone. You even listen to music or books on tape as you can get portable cassette or cd players. Be careful not measure your progress against any one else’s progress.

Pay Attention

Be aware that many factors go into every experience and often little changes can cause a different outcome. For example, the surface you walk on can either support you (and your knees) or cause you problems.

Runner's World ranked the following surfaces on a scale of 1 (awful) to 10 (best):

• Grass - 9.5
• Wood chips - 9
• Dirt - 8
• Cinder track - 7.5
• Track - 7
• Treadmill - 6.5
• Asphalt - 6
• Sand - 4
• Snow - 2.5

Also, be aware of environmental factors if you are outside. Pay attention to air quality. Keep yourself hydrated and protected from the sun with loose clothing, sunscreen and parasols (which are also quite fashionable!)

Get Going!!!

Last, but not least, START!

The decision to become healthier is yours. Then it’s a matter of sticking with it for twenty-one days, allowing it to become a habit. Also, reward yourself a little. For example, if you get out and walk for 10-20 minutes every day for a week, pick up some fresh flowers for your desk.

So get out there and move through space like you enjoy it and you will find that you do.