Exercise can help you get in shape, lose weight and it can be fun. Whether you join a gym or exercise at home, work out at night or during the weekend, this article offers tips to help you squeeze a few hours of fitness into your schedule whenever you can. You should see an amazing difference very quickly, and not only on the scale.

Do not forget to do your cardio. Even if you are trying to just build muscle to your frame, cardio is essential. It adds some variety to your workout. It keeps your body limber and doesn’t allow your muscles to settle into a routine. Over time it is also a great way to build lean muscle.

Whatever fitness routine you choose, be sure to include cardio-vascular exercise. Staying heart and lung healthy is extremely important, and a cardio workout will do just that for your body. Try to do 30 minutes of cardio or aerobic exercise at least 3 times a week. This can take the form of running, biking, using a treadmill or elliptical trainer, or swimming. Remember not to overdo it. If you find yourself short of breath, you should take a break until your heart rate slows down.

Adopt a positive mental attitude. Much is made of the physical workouts and the fitness program you follow, but if your head isn’t there, the rest of you won’t be. A good fitness program starts and ends in the mind, so if you want a strong, lean body make sure that your mental attitude is there first.

If you apply these tips, you should be able to live a healthier life. Fitness helps you look great but it also helps you age gracefully and live longer. Consider other healthy habits such as eating better or quitting smoking. Fitness is only the beginning of a journey that will take you to a place where you can love your body.