One of the most common objections to exercise is lack of time. “I just don’t have time,” people say before rushing off to their next activity.

Do you have time to brush your teeth every day? Wash your face? Comb your hair? Of course you do! I like to think of exercise as something so essential, so basic that it’s like taking a shower or brushing my teeth…it’s just something I do everyday to look and feel my best.

One of the best ways to find time for exercise is to find something you like doing. If you love doing something, chances are you’ll find the time to do it. People find time to go to the movies, watch a favorite sitcom, or go out to dinner….all activities they love. It just goes to show that if you love something, you find time to do it. Don’t force yourself to engage in an activity you dislike. You’ll end up giving up and going right back to square one.

If you can’t think of any exercise you love to do, reflect on what you liked to do as a child. Did you enjoy riding your bicycle? How about going to the park and playing on the swing set? Many childhood pastimes, from riding bikes to jumping rope, also make wonderful exercises, and you’re never too old to be young again!

Here are some ideas to fit exercise into your day:

Take the stairs instead of the elevator at work if you can.
Go for a walk after dinner instead of watching television.
Stretch, practice yoga, or hop onto the rebounder instead of sitting on the couch while watching television.
Schedule a class, such as yoga, tai chi or dance, as you would an appointment. This way the time is blocked out on your calendar.
Get short bursts of exercise and movement in if you cannot squeeze in a longer block of exercise. Two 15-minute walks are better than no walks in a day!

So find something you love doing, and just move. Your body will thank you for it!