Robert Sallis, MD, says to make exercise and better health a part of your daily life. He offers three simple tips to get yourself motivated.

1. Find a partner

Having someone to exercise with not only makes it more enjoyable, it doubles the chance you won't put it off. Whether it's a trip to the gym or just a walk around the block, having an exercise friend is a great way to make sure you stay motivated.

"If there's someone else counting on you, you're less likely to skip exercising," Dr. Sallis points out.

2. Buy yourself something

Believe it or not, having a new pair of workout shoes or an outfit is a great motivator to make exercise a reality.

"People want to look better in public," he says. "But even if you're not working out where others can see you, looking good and feeling good can get you going."

3. Break out of the rut

When most people think about exercise they think of an everyday routine, probably a morning or evening workout at the gym. And while the demands of a routine help some people, it bores others into dropping out all together. Variety is the key.

"It doesn't matter how or where you exercise," Dr. Sallis asserts. "And exercise isn't always running on a treadmill or lifting weights. Take a brisk walk. Do some yard work. Vigorously clean the house."

Dr. Sallis says almost anything can be exercise. "If you're sweaty and tired, you've done it."

filed in: Exercise & Fitness
subjects: fitness, healthy-habits