If you are not in the habit of exercising regularly, you may hear the word "aerobics," and immediately see visions of thin, tight bodies in coordinated workout gear, or think with dread about running. Don’t be discouraged. A wellness approach to exercise is not that limited.

Design Your Own Program
Every body is different, and every psyche is different too. If you have resisted exercise in the past but know that it’s time for a change, it is especially important that you design a program you can live with and stay with—a gentle, step-by-step program that will appeal to your fun-loving inner child or provide companionship or quiet time alone, depending on your needs and desires. Jogging or running are definitely not the only ways to move your body. Consider these other forms of aerobic exercise:

• dancing of all kinds (even ballroom dancing can elevate the heart
• swimming and other water programs, including aerobics for nonswimmers
• walking, walking, walking, walking, walking
• hiking and climbing<
• bicycling
• skipping, jumping rope, or jumping on a trampoline
• calisthenics and weight training
• rowing
• tennis and other ball sports
• using indoor equipment like stationary bikes, treadmills, or rowing machines