"How do you stay motivated?" "Just knowing that staying active will increase my quality of life. My wife and I are expecting our first child, and I want to be healthy for a long time so that I can participate actively in my child's life. Also, being active and fit is a good feeling. It's rewarding to physically challenge myself to set a goal and obtain it." INSURANCE CLAIM ADJUSTER Westwood, NJ "I try to work out even when I don't feel like it, mainly because I know that after a good workout I will feel invigorated. I also realize the importance of staying in shape to keep my weight down and my heart healthy." WALL STREET TRADER New York, NY

The first step is the hardest in becoming more active, but after a few weeks, your fitness routine will become a habit that you'll look forward to during the day However, at times you will need extra encouragement to keep motivated. Start off on the right foot by only choosing activities that you actually enjoy. Engage in a wide variety of activities to keep workouts interesting. Work out with a friend, family member or co-worker. Encourage each other to walk that extra block even on busy mornings. Set realistic short- and long-term goals and chart progress every step of the way. Reward yourself when you meet fitness goals. For example, treat yourself to a massage, new pair of sneakers or clothes. Set aside a particular time to work out during the day so that physical activity becomes a natural part of your routine. Vary the location in which you work out. Instead of walking toward the same park every day, do an about face, and check out the scenery in the other direction. Cut yourself some slack. If you fall off the fitness bandwagon, just climb back on again. The benefits will be waiting for you.

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