​​​​​​Are you someone who doesn't really like to be active or exercise? If so, you're not alone.

People can have different reasons for not being active. To take the first step toward being more active, think about some things that may be stopping you. Once you've thought about what might be stopping you, try the tips below.

• Plan exercise around your schedule, preferences, and interests. You're more likely to make physical activity part of your routine if it fits around your existing life (including work and family life) and if it matches your preferences, like whether you prefer to be indoors or outdoors, and alone or in a group.
• Choose activities that you enjoy or have always wanted to try. Having fun will make it easier to stay active. Whether it's a team sport, dance class, a cardio machine, or a walk by yourself outside, there are lots of ways to be active and they all have benefits.
• If you want to go to a gym or fitness facility, take a tour first. Get to know the layout and the staff. This will help you feel more comfortable before you commit to taking a course or class.
• If you want to try a class, register for a beginner class first. Then everyone will be at the same level trying to learn the basics. As you learn more and get used to some movements, you'll begin to feel more confident.
• If you have questions about exercise equipment, talk to certified fitness instructors or people who work at the gym about how to use the equipment or machines. You can also ask about different exercises that are good for beginners.
• Think about how you'll feel after you've been active. Being active will give you more energy and help you sleep better.
• Plan to be active when you have the most energy. For some people this means a morning run, while for others it means an evening walk. Choose times that work best for you.
• See yourself as an active person. The more active you are, the better you'll feel. The more times you're active in a week, the stronger and more confident you'll feel.
  

Ways to m​​ove​​ more

Being active is not just about going to a fitness centre, running long distances, or lifting weights. There are many ways to add walking or other activity to your daily routine.

• Limit how often or how long you sit. Get up and move around more at work and at home.
• Look for ways to move more when you are going places. Walk or bike to work or when doing errands. If it's available, take public transit instead of driving and walk to the bus or train stop as part of your plan. When you have time, walk for longer distances, like parking further away from entrances or getting off public transit a few stops early. If you have the choice, take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator.
  
• Think about your household chores, like vacuuming or laundry, as a way to be active. Use manual labour and tools such as push mowers or snow shovels to be more active. But work at an even pace so you don't get too tired.
• Make being outdoors more fun by working with your family and visiting neighbours and friends.
  

Get creative

There's no limit to how many things you can do to be more active. Here are a few creative ideas to help get you moving.

• Be active with your children instead of watching TV or playing video games. Do activities inside and outdoors that are fun for everyone, like playing in the yard, walking to a park, or hiking.
• If you have a dog, take them for more walks or longer walks. Slowly build up your pace and distance. The more you walk, the better you and your dog will feel.
• Make activity dates. For example, make a date with your partner or friend for a regular evening walk. On the weekends, make a date for a longer bike ride or walk. Pick a time that works for both of you so you don't have to reschedule.
• When you try an exercise class or any new activity, do it with a friend so it's a social outing too.
  

Choosing activities

Make a list of activities you might be willing to try. Try some of them to see what you like doing. Choose things you'll enjoy.

Here are some activities you can try:

• yoga
• dance classes such as Zumba
• gardening
• skating
• biking
• cross country skiing
• hiking
• rock climbing
• inline skating
• basketball