I want to get in shape at 40+

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Finding good reasons to run and exercise

I'm guessing you're 40-plus at a crossroads. You've made great progress in life, but it's come at a cost. You've neglected your body. For some time you've been wanting to do something about it. But day after day you keep postponing. I understand. I've been there. I know all the reasons and excuses not to exercise, writes David Hay Jones.

One question I'm asked over and over again is, Am I too old to start running and get in shape? Simple answer: You are never too old to start exercising.

It's more important than ever to be in shape at 40-plus in order to resist destructive affects of aging and the problems caused by a sedentary life, for example heart disease, obesity, joint pain and stiffness, and diabetes.

Dr. Cheryl Bellaire, masters champ

Running is great for weight loss. It's among the best, if not the best, form of calorie-burning exercise. It's easy to do, inexpensive, and can be done at any time.

You don't need to go on a course to start running, you don't need to read any books, you don't need a coach. All of these things can help, but they're not vital. If you can walk, you can learn to run. It comes naturally to human beings. But you will need a good pair of running shoes.

Running helps fight stress and depression, and gives you more energy. That might seem strange. Doesn't running tire you? No, it's long term effects are to invigorate and rejuvenate you, so you feel more enthusiastic about life and more able to focus on difficult tasks.

Running makes you feel good about yourself, and makes you look better. When you've been running a few months, people will ask, Wow, are you working out? or Did you lose a bunch of weight?. That will give you confidence and inspiration to keep running.

Running gives you time alone to think, to timeout from stress, to let your mind wander as you stride along a trail.

It's gives you a great chance to think creatively. While you're running, your mind feels free, jumping and flowing from idea to idea, solving problems.

And running relaxes you. After a training run, you'll feel calm, less tense, happier. You'll feel glad to be alive.

READ MORE: Choosing the right running shoe

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