We all know that exercising regularly is good for one’s health, but finding the motivation to do so can be a real challenge.

Little time is left for fitness after work, classes and social lives have been factored into the equation. The usual excuses of “I’m too tired,” “I have no time” or “I really hate exercising” bubble up to the surface and our willpower – along with our muscle – weakens.

Being too tired is often a direct result of a poor diet and not enough exercise. Restructure your meal plan by eating small, frequent meals throughout the day.

Also, be aware that the more you exercise, the more likely your body will be energized. The fresh air of a short walk is good for your mind and body.

Thirty minutes a day is all you need to get started with an exercise program. To combat the “I have no time” excuse, make a point of doing a couple dozen crunches, pushups and squats first thing every morning. It only takes a few minutes out of your day.

Chances are you will be too tired that early in the morning to even register that you have already done a bit of exercise! This kind of bodyweight training is the perfect way to increase strength and begin your day.

The University of Winnipeg Duckworth Centre gym is free for students, so take advantage of this opportunity.

Hit the gym with a friend to make exercise fun if you do not enjoy it. Go between classes even for 20 minutes. With someone else beside you, the time flies. The gym can be a great way to catch up with friends.

Use the machines or dumbbells for strength training and try out the track, elliptical machine, stationary bike or treadmill for cardio. If you aren’t a fan of running, try walking on an incline. Your body will benefit just as much from the incline as it will from keeping a fast pace.

Exercise doesn’t always have to be formally structured into your day either. Plan your lifestyle to include exercise so that you don’t have to go to the gym. Walk or ride your bike for transportation.

Using exercise as a necessity ensures you don’t skip it. There are staircases all over the university, so students can walk a couple flights to their classes rather than take the packed-full escalators.

Setting a goal is an excellent motivator. There are fitness clubs and events all over Winnipeg that you can be a part of.

For instance, Manitoba Runner’s Association (www.mraweb.ca) and The Running Room (www.runningroom.com) are two websites to look at if you are interested in trying out a race. There is anything from five-kilometre races to half marathons to choose from.

Many of these events have a walking option if you have no desire to run. These races are also usually fundraisers for good causes – and there isn’t much better motivation than that.

University of Winnipeg student Sagan Morrow writes a health and wellness blog.

Published in Volume 64, Number 3 of The Uniter (September 17, 2009)