4. Your Health in Motion

Getting started with exercise can feel like a challenge. The key is to find movement that feels more like a reward and less like a chore. 

The CDC recommends gradually working up to 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week. Don't let that number intimidate you. It's just 30 minutes, 5 days a week. 

2. Make Movement Easy

• Prep for success. Lay out your workout clothes, have your shoes by the door, and pack your gym bag. Making it easy to get moving removes the biggest barrier to starting.

• Make it a habit. Find an activity you love, or you won't stick with it. Whether it's dancing, hiking a local trail, or playing a game, prioritize fun. Movement should feel like a reward, not a punishment.

• Sit less, move more. Set a reminder on your phone to get up and stretch every hour. Walk around while you're on a call. Small movements add up.

• Find your squad. Working out with a friend or a family member can give you the accountability and motivation you need. Plus, a little friendly competition can make the challenge more fun.

• Start small. Big, overwhelming goals are a recipe for burnout. Start with a five or ten-minute walk. Celebrate that small win. Little successes pave the way for bigger, more ambitious goals down the road.

• Reward your hard work. Think of a way to celebrate your progress that isn't food-related. Try putting a dollar in a jar every time you meet your daily activity goal. At the end of the month, you can use that money to buy new shoes or a new piece of gear.