Most people know they should exercise but many have no idea why. Maintaining full mobility, better brain function with age, and increased self confidence are just a few of the great benefits one can gain by making exercise part of a lifestyle. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends exercise at least 150 minutes per week in order to achieve the associated benefits of exercise.
However most people are intimidated by this recommendation and the time commitment it requires. For someone starting out with no exercise in their lifestyle at all it is more realistic and beneficial to start small and build up to the recommended level step by step. This will allow one to identify a more realistic starting point and gain motivation by accomplishing smaller goals and ultimately get to the appropriate level in the long run.
It is also important not to be intimidated by the preconceived notions that exercise has to be at a gym or on a piece of exercise equipment at home. While these are very effective it is not mandatory. Exercise or activity that will get the looked for benefits can be as basic as walking, using steps at home, or playing with kids. The most important things to look for are an elevated heart rate, increased breathing rate, and of course perspiration; yes that means sweating is not an option. So the choices are limitless for gaining exercise benefits as long as these guidelines are met. So get started and have fun whatever that choice may be.