HEATHER, athlete and personal trainer: Congratulations! You’ve taken the first two steps to making a positive change in your life and more importantly for your body. First, you recognize that not exercising is in fact a problem and second, you are questioning how to get started on a program.

Your next set of goals are of utmost importance. The biggest change that you need to make for yourself is to start scheduling a time of day for exercise. Block off one hour of your day in your palm pilot, day planner, or calendar that is dedicated solely to exercise and the betterment of your body. This is an appointment with yourself that cannot be broken and can’t be easily switched at your whim.

. The next step is finding a routine that will keep both your mind and body stimulated and provide the results that you desire. You may need to enlist the assistance of a personal trainer or fitness professional to help you develop a routine that is best for you. If you choose to go it alone, make sure you are finding a balance between strength, cardio vascular and flexibility training. Don’t forget that things you may find enjoyable are also considered exercise. For example, swimming, biking, roller blading and playing basketball are good forms of exercise, especially if you are doing them with a high level of intensity.

Finally, most people find it easier to exercise with a partner. Your partner cannot only help with motivation, but it is much harder to not show up for a workout when you must answer to them for your lack of attendance.

Remember, exercise is a lifestyle change. It must become habitual. You have been given one body- you must take care of it Posted September 24, 2003 03:50 AM