To start an aerobic exercise program, just put on your running shoes and start walking. It's fun -- and free. You can walk in your neighborhood, at a local mall, at school on the track.

If walking is not your thing, grab your bike and start riding. Or swim laps. Or do all of these! There are enough choices to let you do a different one each day for a month -- or longer.

Find Your Best Time of Day for Exercise
As you start an aerobic exercise program, it's important to find the right time to exercise -- a time when you feel alert and energetic. This helps to make the exercise more fun and even easier.

You may be a morning person and enjoy using a stationary bike before school. Or, if you're barely awake at 6 a.m., hit the track running at lunchtime, during PE, or after school. Maybe swimming is what you love. So enjoy de-stressing while swimming laps on your school's team.

Exercise with a Friend
If you get bored easily and like to talk with someone, invite a friend to be part of your aerobic exercise program. Your friend can act as a coach, motivator, and conscience, as well as give you someone to laugh with during exercise.

Some studies have found that exercising with someone increases the chance that you'll stick with the program.

Join an Aerobic Exercise Class
If you are social or need further instruction, you might prefer being part of a fitness class. Try an aerobics or gymnastics class at the local "Y," a spinning class at a fitness center, or a school sports team: volleyball, basketball, football, swimming.

The options for aerobic exercise are numerous. Just find what you like and make it your daily habit -- your gift to yourself!

Build Your Own Gym at Home
If you like privacy and would rather exercise in the comfort of your own home, set up a personal home gym. Exercising at home allows you to choose the time of day you work out, and exercise at your own pace.

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