You don't have to do calisthenics or aerobics to get exercise. You can get enough exercise through daily activities. Count walking the dog, working in the garden or cleaning up the house as your daily exercise.

If you hate exercise videos, don't do them. Pick an activity that you enjoy so you'll stick with it. If walking briskly around the block is more appealing, then do that. If working in the garden is your passion, then do that.

Activities such as walking, swimming and dancing increase your heart rate and breathing. This makes your heart, lungs and circulatory system healthier. Aerobic exercise may also delay or prevent such diseases as diabetes, colon cancer and heart disease.

No matter your age, weight training can help build muscles and help prevent osteoporosis. Weight training also helps keep your weight and your blood sugar under control. And don't forget that cycling, swimming, hiking, golfing, tennis, shuffleboard and bowling also help maintain muscle health.

Stretching exercises help improve your flexibility and keep your body limber. These exercises also may help slow the development of arthritis. Balancing exercises, such as briefly standing on one leg, also help prevent falls.

If you try to do too much too soon, you can end up with an injury. Instead, gradually build the intensity and length of your workouts. Try to include exercises from all four areas: endurance (aerobic activity), strength (weight training), flexibility (stretching) and balance.

Your doctor may want to give you a physical examination to assess your health. He or she may also be able to suggest exercises that are best for you.

Experts say you don't need to do strenuous exercises to gain health benefits. Moderate exercise is just fine. In fact, because you're not overdoing it, you'll be more likely to stick with a moderate program than one that pushes you too hard. The key is listening to your body. Rest when necessary, and always drink water -- before, during and after exercise.