It’s common knowledge nowadays that a reasonable level of exercise is good for us: it helps us lose weight or stay at our best size; it keeps our organs in good shape; it helps in lowering cholestorol; it elevates our disposition; it makes us look better; it helps to enhance our sexual relationships; and so much more.

And yet many people say they want to keep fit, and exclaim that in the past they have tried to, and they do have some exercise clothes in the closet…. but they on no account actually do any training. There are numerous reasons for this, but most people draw on one of only five widespread reasons. So let’s take a few minutes to look at what the excuses are, and how to rise above them.

Defense #1: I don’t have time to train

What rubbish. Unadulterated, complete rubbish. You’ve most likely got time to sit in front of X-Factor, or the lastest soap opera, or the news, or Law and Order, am I right? Well, run whilst watching, or buy some arm and leg weights and use them while you watch TV. Buy a mat for the floor and do some floor exercises: yoga, stretching, or core exercises. Do something – don’t just sit. Heck, even standing and doing your ironing will burn more calories. And only 15 minutes of exercises regularly can be enough.

Defense #2: I don’t own any fitness equipment

That’s good: You don’t need any. Go for a fast walk. As mentioned previously, iron or vaccuum the carpets. Party to your much loved CDs (just close the blinds first!). Go with the dog for a long, brisk walk.

Defense #3: I don’t want to get tied into fitness center membership

Perhaps. You’re not required to attend a state-of-the-art leisure center. Look for one that’s a little bit older, somewhat less kitted-out. Possibly your health insurer, employer, or local government offers some discounts. Occasionally, a YMCA or local government will hold a gym which you can use sporadically without a 18-month tie-in. Hell, why even visit a gym if you can get some exercise in your home or in the garden.

Defense #4: Working-out is mind-numbing

So find tips to make it pleasurable. Work-out with a buddy. Play sports rather than “exercise”. Make up a playlist of your favorite music to work-out to (find a colleague to help you if you’re not computer-literate that sort of thing). Bring an enthralling book for when you are using the stationary bike. Drive to somewhere beautiful and walk there rather than through the back-streets. Go out later in the evening, when it’s just getting dark but whilst you can still see into the other houses before they draw the curtains, and have fun laughing at. There are lots of strategies to make exercise more pleasurable. Check out a handful, and you’ll find one that works for you.

Defense #5: I’m not yet fit enough to work-out

Obviously, or else you’d be exercising now rather than reading this article. Start small. It only takes a small bit of frequent exercise (whatever that means for you) to start seeing benefits. In a few weeks you’ll be able to work-out more intensely and for longer. The crux is to make certain that you persevere long enough to realize the gains.

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