You don't hate working out. In fact, you probably loved it when you were younger. Unfortunately, life has a way of getting in the way. Your job, kids, and everyday life seem to suck away all of your energy and time.

Even if you know exercise is good for you, it's easy to tell yourself you'll get to it when you have less on your plate. The trouble is, you never seem to have less to do. Even health problems and a little extra weight gathering around your spare tire may not be enough to scare you into exercising regularly. But think about the great benefits you'll gain from exercising.

Exercise benefits for men

Want to know the benefits of exercising regularly? Just about any physician will tell you exercise will improve your life and your health. Here are just a few benefits men can gain through exercise:

• Lower risk of diabetes
• Lower cholesterol
• Reduced depression and anxiety
• Lower risk of high blood pressure
• Healthier blood vessels
• Weight loss
• Improved testosterone levels as you age
• Lower risk of colon cancer
• Stronger bones
• Reduced risk of erectile dysfunction
• Longer life

How much exercise should I get?

Knowing the benefits of regular exercise is great. But you might be tempted to think you have to exercise for hours on end to reap any benefit. Fortunately, that's not the case. Walking or for just half an hour a day can help reduce your risk for many health problems, including diabetes and cancer. Even better, add 30 minutes of strength training 2-3 days a week. Although it might seem like a lot at first, carving out that half-hour of time shouldn't be too difficult. If you can find time for a longer exercise session, even better. The more time and energy you put into it, the more likely you and your health will benefit.

Quality of life

Regular exercise will lead to a better quality of life. How? Regular exercise will help you with your mental health - it eases the depression, anxiety, and anger that come up in everyday life. Tension from a long day of work? Exercise can help relieve it. A brief 30-minute session of moderate exercise can also boost your energy levels, help you sleep better, and improve your self-image.

Whether you're 25 or 55, exercise is important. Carving out 30 minutes each day to invest in your future health is well worth it and easier than you think. Most often, the hardest part is starting. Once you take that first step and form a habit, it's smooth sailing.

So do yourself a favor and take the step!