Exercise - sometimes an hour-long run seems like a short prison sentence when we’ve been out of the habit for a week or two.

But it doesn’t have to be that way!

So - how can we make exercise enjoyable, stimulating and freedom-supporting?

First, remember that every decision you make absolutely matters! All of our choices add up.
And no choice is more important to healthy bodies and hearts than our diets.

When we eat well, we live well - and want to keep our bodies moving to support that healthy habit.

From there, it’s simple - we have to redefine what exercise means - and trick ourselves into staying in motion

Remember, anything that raises your heart-rate is exercise. Rewrite the script in your head and create options for yourself.

Here’s 8 ways you can get your heart beating and make exercise personal, practical, and - shocker - actually fun.

1. Rec leagues - Whether you’re new to town, or never left home, joining a co-ed kickball or soccer team can keep you engaged socially - and keep your legs churning week after week.
    
2. Dancing - Zumba, tango, flamengo, swing - whatever you want - grab a friend, try something new and get your left feet stepping.
    
3. Dating - The pay-off after the mental gymnastics of texting is one of the best cardio workouts you can get. Worth remembering next time you swear off of your Tinder. 
    
4. Climbing on stuff - Trees, benches, short walls - scaling the world around you for 20 minutes can add pepper into a bland run.
    
5. Roughhousing with your kids (or someone else’s) - You’re only as old as you say you are. Having fun with kids half your age can double your joy - and help keep you youthful.
    
6. Kung fu - Karate or capoeira, adding discipline to your workout routine can work wonders at tricking your mind.
    
7. Yoga - 30 minutes into breathing and stretching, you’ll forget why you spent an hour talking yourself out of your afterwork practice.
    
8. Bike to work - put your pedals to use - and save money on your morning commute.

Whatever sounds right to you, start thinking of exercise as a reward - not an obligation - and you’ll be sure to reap more of its benefits - and start grooving the right habits in the process.

No need to limit yourself with another drab day at the gym - the sky is your limit - so enjoy the ride, whichever path you choose to move on.