The importance of exercise to overall health cannot be overstated. It does not take a lot of time in a sedentary lifestyle to begin to see health implications emerge. We all know that exercise is important, but life is also hectic at times, and it can be difficult to maintain a consistent regimen of exercise.

Going to a gym is a good way to commit a specific amount of time to exercise, but gym memberships can be costly, and it’s not always possible to carve out regular blocks of time to dedicate just to exercise.

When the gym is just not a good fit for your schedule or lifestyle, or just not your preferred mode of exercise, there are many ways that you can exercise your body without a need for that membership or crowded facility.

Classics

There are many “old-school” methods of exercise that have been practiced since time-immemorial, with no established workout facility required. Good old-fashioned jogging is always an option, no matter where you live or when you’re able to do it. Of course, depending on your location, seasonal adjustments may be required, but you don’t need anything but your body to do this, so it’s about the simplest alternative there is.

For those with knee problems, or who may not enjoy running, you can always find ways to exercise in the comfort and privacy of your own home, and with minimal need for props or equipment.

There are numerous online resources such as this one that offers multiple workout options for beginners. Of course, more advanced workouts  are also available, so just select the options that fit you best. But there’s something for everybody out there. You just need to find the one that best inspires, motivates, challenges, and satisfies your particular goals.

If time is short, just remember, all you have to do is raise your heart rate once a day, and you’re already on the path to better health. That may even mean just doing a few squats or running in place. Even just putting on a favorite song and dancing or jumping around for 5 minutes is a step in the right direction. Something is always better than nothing.

Day-to-Day

Outside of regimented exercise routines, there are a number of ways that you can increase your physical activity by simply making a few adjustments to your day-to-day routine.

You can, for example, use stairs instead of elevators whenever possible. You can park farther away from your destination and include a little walking in a journey that you’re making. Whether to work, the grocery store, the mall, an appointment, or anywhere you may be going, adding a little walking to the trip and keeping your body moving is always beneficial to health.

After-dinner walks around the neighborhood are a good way both to get exercise and to unwind from the day. If working out is not something you feel you’ll be motivated to do, anyone can always get out and walk at just about any time, any day.

Your body is the most important tool to keep sharp. A little exercise often is good advice, so it doesn’t need to be time-consuming or expensive to stay fit and healthy.