I wouldn't characterize myself as sedentary, in fact I passed on being a software developer over ten years ago, since the intense focus I gave it (maybe it was a flow state) consumed me to the point gained four inches on my waist...I forgot to move but not to eat. Nevertheless, I remain busy enough that exercise remains a challenge. Here are some tips/ideas that have helped me over the years:

1. Low cost, portable means of exercise is best. This means don't spend a bunch of money at a swanky gym unless you are really motivated by that atmosphere or the social aspects. Running, walking, and floor exercises are great becuase very little equipment is required, you can typically do it anywhere, and the cost is low.

2. Don't just do one thing, do a variety of things. I do walking, running, some swimming, biking, floor exercise, yoga and whatever else I can come up with. A routine can become too routine. Also, I can fit the exercise to my energy level...walks are great when I just don't have the will to run. A few push-ups here and there is great to.

3. Yoga is great because you can get the benefits of exercise and meditation simultaneously. Nothing has done more for me to improve my posture and alleviate back pain than Yoga.

4. Don't park so close to the entrance of every place you go...this looks especially ridiculous at the gym. Take the walk, enjoy the weather or at least acclimate yourself to it. Your car will look so much better without all the door dings anyway.

5. Try not to eat for 4 hours before your bedtime. You'll sleep better and snack less. If you really want to lose some weight, exercise after your last meal of the day, but not so late that you can't sleep.

6. Try exercising with a purpose. Yard work can be great exercise as can housecleaning, construction, and taking care of baby. I can't tell you how many baby presses I do an evening, but I feel the burn and enjoy the giggles. Best part is that my weight set automatically gets a little heavier every day. She is also great to take on walking meditations back and forth accross the living room.

7. Try connecting something you really enjoy with exercise. I love listening to great audiobooks, so I try to connect listening to them with exercise. (e.g. not allowed to listen unless I am walking/running). I also like cigars, so a really long walk with a nice Churchill is great (running is tough). Of course, the cigar approach has to be done in moderation, or it is counterproductive.

8. For running, I really liked the books Running the Spiritual Path which is about running meditation/prayer. Not everyones cup of tea, but I look at it as killing two birds with one stone.

9. For floor exercises, I have done some from this guy Power of 10, but to be honest, I don't have a fully formed opinion on either Furey or Power of 10 methods. I do think slow with good form is the best, both for strength and avoiding injury.

10. Speaking of martial arts, if you don't travel much, finding a good martial arts school can be a great workout. The best schools aren't belt/rank mills and aren't just focused on self-defense, although knowing how to protect yourself is a good thing. Be sure to check them out before signing a contract. Observe a class, pay attention to rank versus apparent skill (which can be largely determined by the grace, fluidity, speed and apparent power of movement, even if you can't judge the effectiveness). The best schools typically let you go month to month versus yearly contracts. If your older like me, you may want to stay away from Karate and Taekwondo, and stick with more internal arts like Hsing Yi, Tai Chi, Wing Chun.