If you're overweight or obese, you may be reluctant to exercise. It's not easy, it may make you uncomfortable, and you may feel that all your efforts are going unrewarded. But recent research shows that even a little bit of activity can have a big impact on the quality of your life.

As little as one hour of exercise per week can improve the ability to perform daily tasks for the severely obese. That's less than 10 minutes of exercise a day. What's more, when you find you're able to make those little changes in activity, you'll build confidence in your ability. With your new-found confidence, you'll be able to extend your exercise sessions and realize even more benefits.

While an hour of exercise a week isn't likely enough to aid with weight loss, it's a good starting point. And, for someone who's currently inactive, it's a significantly less daunting goal than 30-60 minutes a day like some programs recommend.