Let's face it: starting a regular exercise routine isn't the easiest thing in the world to do. If it was, everyone in Central Texas would be running, walking or lifting weights (wouldn't that be nice?).

We've heard them all, but the bottom line is if you want to start an exercise program you will. And one of the best ways to get going is by simply walking or running. The key is making a firm commitment to begin and not to allow any excuses garbage in, garbage out to get in your way of regular fitness.

Here are some of the most common excuses we hear every day and some workable solutions:

1."I don't have time to run or walk"

Solution: First off, the President of the United States exercises every day. He's a pretty busy guy, but still makes the time. So does Michael Dell, Governor Rick Perry, Mayor Will Wynn and countless other extremely busy people with high-stress jobs. If they can find the time, you can too.

But how? Run or walk early in the day, before your workday begins. That way, you'll get your miles done and out of the way. If something unexpected comes up later in the day, you'll already have done your walk or run. If you have young children, going early is about the only way busy moms can get a run in. Same with dads. If both Mom and Dad run, simply stagger your early- morning runs.

Now running early is easier said than done for a lot of people. Some of us simply can't get going in the morning. If that's you, make a commitment to run during your lunch hour or some other time during the day. Running when you get home from work or school is tough. It's often dark and chances are you're tired from a busy day and will find a convenient excuse that word again! to blow it off.

Bottom line: Make a firm commitment to running at a specific time every day and stick with it. Commit to at least four to five runs or walks a week at a fixed time. If you do, you're more likely to stick with your program.

2."I'm too old"

Solution: Pure garbage. If you're reading this (and at least interested in an exercise program), you aren't too old. There are plenty of folks in Austin well into their 80s and 90s who walk or run every day. They don't look or act like they're too old because they aren't. They lead fit and active lives that have added years to their lifespan.

Bottom line: All you need is the motivation and desire to get going. Start slowly with a gradual progression of time spent walking or running. It will get easier as you get fitter and fitter.

3."I'm too slow"

Solution: You're what? Too slow? Too slow for what? The idea is to maintain continuous movement, not to break land speed records. Don't worry about speed or mileage covered. Nobody cares. Your goal is simple: To run or walk continuously for up to a half hour, five times per week. As prescribed by the American Heart Association, "To maintain health and reduce the risk of chronic disease, all healthy adults between 18 and 65 years should take part in moderate physical activity such as walking for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, or vigorous physical activity such as jogging for at least 20 minutes three days a week."

Bottom line: Your body doesn't care how fast you're moving; just the fact that you're moving and burning calories is what counts.

4."I don't have any place to go"

Solution: Do you have a street? Then, you have a place to run or walk. Sure, Lady Bird Lake or the Green Belt is preferable but if it's too far away, any quiet stretch of road (highways don't count) will do. Shopping malls provide good cover and aren't as boring as a lonely stretch of road.

Bottom line: Just try to find a lightly traveled road. Or if you must, drive to one. Treadmills are okay (especially in the summer or cold winter), but walking or running on one can be pretty darned boring.

5."It's too hot"

Solution: You're right. It's awfully warm in Austin in July and August. But even with warm spring and fall temps, the easiest solution is to go early in the morning in the pre-dawn darkness before it heats up too much. If you just can't do that, go to a gym and get on a treadmill. Or go to an air-conditioned mall and walk.

Bottom line: You're best bet though is to get used to the heat. Allow yourself time to gradually adapt to it by starting your running or walking program in small bites and give yourself time to adjust to the heat. And don't forget: drink before you run or walk and rehydrate immediately afterward.

6."It's no fun"

Solution: Make it fun. Grab a workout partner and chat the time away. Discuss Texas politics, Longhorn football or the causes of global warming. Solve the world's problems. Vary your pace. Go longer some days and shorter on others. Travel to different locales and parks for your walks or runs. If you go to different cities, bring your running shoes and explore new places. Download some audio books or podcasts to your MP3 player and listen as you exercise.

Bottom line: Running or walking can be boring but only if you allow it to be. You're only limited by your own imagination. Get over it and get going!