This past two weeks I have noticed alot of people returning to the gym that hadn't been there for awhile.  The common theme came up in conversation, " I haven't had time to workout, I've been so busy."  I hear, "The kids are home from school and I can't get away."  and " I worked alot during the holiday and didn't have time." What ever the reason, they came back.  

Weight gain is common over the holiday with all the eating and sitting.  Many people make their New Year resolution to loose weight and get in shape.  We live busy lives. We have to make time.  The health benefits of exercise are so great we can't not exercise.

Here are just a few good reasons not to skip exercise and make it a priority, Steven Blair PhD, professor of Exercise epidemiology at the University of South Carolina one of the countries leading exercise scientists sites these benefits for regular exercise;

• keeps your heart and lungs working efficiently
• helps prevent adult onset diabetes
• improves bone health
• lowers the risk of some cancers
• eases depression for some people

Regular exercise has also been found in studies to lower the risk of heart disease by;

• boosting HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol)
• lowering triglycerides
• lowering hypertention
• reducing C-reactive protein, a measure of inflamation

Diabetes and heart disease can be life altering and life threatening.  The amount and quality of time you have to spend with your family could be reduced.  You may miss work or not be able to work.  You may not live to enjoy the fruits of your hard labor.

Don't make excuses.  Make time for exercise.  The bottom line...how can you Not find the time.

Joan Kirwan, R.N., is a certified personal trainer, lifestyle coach and fitness nutrition/weight-loss specialist. She can be reached at Snap Fitness in Oakland Township or via e-mail at j_k_kirwan@yahoo.com.