Running really is a great exercise. Even if you can only get out for about 20 minutes before or after work, it's worth it.

But start slowly--try running 2-3 minutes, walking 1. This helps you prevent injuries.

Do you work at a place with stairs? Maybe on your break you could go up and down them? If you take two steps at a time, it's super cardio-intense.

Good luck!

My partner went out every night after the kids were to bed... rain, snow, blizzard, dark.. did it all. Just letting you know it can be done! Dont know about where you live, but here we grab a flashlight - bright shirt - and head out whatever time...

morning walks are heavenly! sunrise is gorgeous.... :)

I've gone running at some absurdly late hours - and a lot of runners start at 4:30 or 5:00 AM if they have to. You'll have to be sure to find a path that's safe and well-lit. Remember, too, that it's ok to split your workout into two shorter workouts in the same day, as long as you take a day off in between if your muscles get sore.

You inspired me, b/c I do have a gym membership but have all the excuses of why I quit using it..too tired, too late too early etc. point is I need to just make time and do it and I know it. Good luck w/your running I'm going to make myself go to the gym in the morning!

I totally understand--I'm single parenting two little ones and can't just take off to run on my own. When I'm working and all, it seems there's no time. My suggestion is to pick up whatever you can--I always park the farthest away from buildings as I can, I walk circles around the park while my kids play at the playground, take the stairs, etc. Getting a pedometer really helped because then I would make choices that would "up" my number of steps (take the long way around to the office instead of the direct route, etc.) If you can swing a couple hundred dollars, a treadmill is a great investment, because you can run or walk no matter the time, the weather, the safety issues.

I've always been a believer of doing the little things throughout the day. Lay a yoga mat down on the floor, do some crunches, girl push ups and work your way up to regular push ups. Even squats- do 3 sets of 15, and it's amazing how drastic you can change your body, if the gym is not an option. I got a 4 pack just by doing stuff at home. Lost so much weight- I was so fit- and I walked in the mornings and did the other stuff througout the day. Good luck and let us know about your progress! = )

thanks to every one that posted, i did try going for a jog in the afternoon, unfortunately about 3 young men called out lewd comments and made lewd gestures and i was terrified they were going to follow me home! not all of queensland is like this but i live in one of those suburbs that its just not safe at night and my partner will refuse to let me out on my own after that! i did however, start jogging up and down just the street i live in and thats been ok, i think i may invest in a treadmill, its just not safe here at night:-( thanks again for your advice and i will let you know how things go :-)

if u dont have a dog- can u borrow one from a friend to take with you? they are good deterants....take care and keep up the spirits