Just the facts: fitness basics

There's a lot of information out there about how to get fit and the benefits a healthy lifestyle provides. Sometimes all we need is a little motivation. Here's a list of 10 fitness facts from Discovery Health that might help you realize that just taking that first step toward fitness means you've instantly started improving your health. Some highlights:

• Almost anyone can benefit from some form of exercise.
• Walking briskly burns nearly as many calories as jogging.
• Walking briskly for 3 or more hours a week can cut your risk of heart disease by over half.
• It takes 12 weeks to see significant change in any fitness program, but you'll notice improvement right away.
• Fitness has four components: aerobic, strength, flexibility, and body composition. To be truly fit, you need to address all four.

Now that you know how simple getting fit can be, here's a list of 11 ways to motivate yourself. Strap on those shoes and take the first step towards a new, fitter you. What do you have to lose?