Keeping fit is a real challenge. Like most things in life people excel at different things - sports and keeping fit have never been one of my strong points, but I have recently uncovered the wonderful health benefits of sticking to a strict running schedule.

If you are anything like me and have never enjoyed keeping fit before, getting started will be the hardest thing to accomplish. The trick is to start out small! I started my fitness campaign by walking three times a week, gradually increasing the length of each walk over the first two weeks. I then felt ready to move on to some light jogging. It may sound like a long winded process, but it is in actual fact better for your body to gradually increase the amount of exercise you do.

My light jogging usually consisted of half hour sessions. During these sessions I would jog for five minutes then walk for five, then continue this routine for the full half hour. Once I had completed a further two weeks of exercise I began to jog for a full 20 minutes three times a week. I was really surprised at how easy the transition was, even though I had begun my exercise campaign starting with no previous training - the secret was to build it up gradually.

I now run religiously three times a week for half an hour each session, no more. Having stuck to this routine for quite some time the benefits I am now receiving from the training are working hard to keep me active and sticking to my routine. I feel happier, energized and have managed to keep my weight down to a healthy level - all through one and a half hours training a week! The key is to stick with it, less is more - try it for yourself!