I would describe myself as inactive
I want to be more active but am having trouble starting
My activities are light effort (heart rate does not increase much, very little strain involved)

No Time No Energy No Motivation
Sound familiar? Let's look at ways to overcome some of these common barriers and take those first few steps to an active lifestyle.

How much is enough?
If you are inactive, any increase in activity will feel good, and be of some benefit. The goal is to find ways to increase the number of minutes you're active each day, and the intensity (speed or effort) of your activity.

Are you ready?
Complete the questions in this worksheet to take that first step to a more active lifestyle.

Step One:

Check off 2 of the benefits of physical activity that are most important to you
Reduce disease
Maintain a healthy weight, or lose weight
Control blood sugars or cholesterol
Reduce stress
Boost energy
Sleep better
Feel stronger, fitter
Feel good about myself
Other _______________

Step Two:

Set a realistic goal
At this stage your intent is try out some simple activities to boost your confidence. Before setting a goal answer the following questions:
What activity are you interested in trying?
Walking
Playing active games with my kids
Exercise video
Swimming
Bicycling
Gardening
Other
What time is most convenient? When could you find 10 minutes to be active?
Morning
At lunch
After Work
After dinner
Other

Step Three:

Write a realistic, specific goal for the next two weeks. E.g. I will walk ten minutes on two of my lunch breaks in the next 2 weeks.

Step Four:

At the end of the two weeks, write another goal for the next two weeks. Feeling a little unmotivated? Look back at your benefits, and recruit support from friends, co-workers and family.