As odd as this may sound, exercise, building muscle, becoming toned are just as easy as becoming over weight. I know what you’re thinking; this guy is out of his mind! Let’s think about it for a second we all know that exercise will eventually sculpt your body the way you desire through a lot of work and a set routine. What a lot of us don’t know is getting fat is just as much work and training. The difference is while you’re sculpting your body to be round it doesn’t actually feel as if you’re putting any effort in but each time you lift that fork to your mouth or drink a soda you are training your body. If you actually think about it in terms of the comparison, it’s just as easy to build a body builders body as it is to build an obese persons body. Your state of mind is the only thing holding you back. Today we are going to change your mind set, eliminate all those excuses and start you on a path to success. Step1. Overcoming Obstacles The first step we must cover is how to over comethe obstacles. This is extremely important because this where the excuses come in. Before starting any exercise program you need to address all the reasons that would stop you from starting and continuing. I’m too busy or don’t have enough time: This is probably the most common excuse people use. If you are truly ready to start an exercise program then you have to want it. I will say it again you HAVE TO WANT IT! This excuse is all about priorities, if you want it bad enough you will find the free time. I don’t have access to fitness equipment: In most cases you don’t need fitness equipment to get in shape and tone your body. Sit ups, crunches, pushups, squats, walking, running are just a few options you can almost do anywhere or in the privacy of your own home; especially walking. Any of these options are better than sitting and thinking about doing the exercise but never actually accomplishing it. I’m too overweight for exercise: If you are that overweight simple activities to startwill be best. Walking is the key element to any exercise program. If you’re unable to start a more physical routine go out and walk as far as you can. Start tracking your distance and when the distance you have completed seems to be easier than before go a little further. Eventually when you start dropping the pounds and building your cardio you will be able to get into the more physical routines. A treadmill can also be used in this case. Step2. Setting a plan Now that we have the first step and excuses out of the way lets move into the second step. You need to set your exercise goals, its good to write it down or make your own personal exercise calendar. You’re going to need to set the when you will be able to exercise, Where you will be able to do it, and how much you plan to accomplish. Of course all this means nothing if you don’t stick with it… Step3. Getting Started Your aim when starting out should be trying to walk 20-30 minutes a day 5 days a week. You’re muscles and jointswill feel weird for a while but this is normal, alls it means is that they haven’t been used in a long time and need time to get used to this new routine. If you are unable to meet the 20-30 minute 5 days a week schedule then do what you can and set that target time as your goal. I assure you when you reach one of your goals or advance on your normal exercise routine you will feel really good about yourself and have a positive attitude. A positive attitude will keep you exercising and exercising will keep you losing weight and building your dream body. Step4. Switching it Up It’s amazing how quickly the human body can adapt to something. The best possible way to keep your exercise efforts functional is to add variety. I have listed below the best cardio basics that even the pro’s use. Walking: I’ve mentioned walking a lot through this article. Why? Because it’s the least strenuous and most effective exercise for those who are starting out. A lot of people use a pedometer to count theamount of steps they’ve taken. Your weekly goal should be anywhere from 500-1500 steps during the course of a week. It may seem like a lot at first but as your body develops you will find that amount to low and start increasing your steps per week. Jogging: Jogging is actually good and bad for beginners the reason is that jogging and running place a significant amount of stress on your bones and joints. For a larger person this can be very difficult and probably shouldn’t be used right away. Jogging is a faster approach to exercise; where walking takes a good long period jogging fits a lot of exercise into a short period of time. Make sure to stretch before running for it is essential. Cramping, or pulling of muscles can ruin anyone’s day or cause serious injury. Swimming: This is a low impact exercise that has minimal impact on your joints. Swimming strengthens your upper and lower body. This cardiovascular exercise can be performed by anyone and a steady pace. No matter what yoursize shape or age, beginning or advanced swimming is a fantastic way to tone your body, lose weight, and build muscle at the same time. Cardiovascular Equipment: Treadmills, rowing machines, elliptical, trainers, and stationary bikes are only a few of the options available but are also the best choices. These can be found in a local gym or fitness center. You also have the option of purchasing this equipment for the privacy of your own home if you’re not comfortable going to the gym or don’t have the extra time and money needed. However I do suggest a gym or fitness center because you are able to acquire the services of a fitness trainer and have access to all the equipment you will ever need to meet your goals. That’s it! If you are just starting out and looking for the best way to begin then this should be all the information you will ever need.