In this article: Ask Jorge Cruise a fitness question! Visit Jorge's Web site More of our conversation with Dyer

Overcome your exercise excuses

Need motivation to get moving? Start by adjusting your thinking.

For more of our conversation with Dyer, check out jorgecruise.com/tv.

Most people have an easy time making up excuses not to exercise. There's a long list, but some of the most common thoughts are "I don't have enough time," "I don't have the energy," and "I really don't like to sweat."

Wayne Dyer, a self-help expert who has shared his theories with millions on Oprah.com and Ellen, says making the commitment to exercise -- or to achieve any other goal -- starts with changing those self-defeating thoughts. "Change your thoughts and your whole life falls into place," Dyer says.

The first step: Visualize yourself exercising to help make it happen. "Go to that feeling it creates in your body. Go in your thoughts to the idea of exercising on a regular basis, and then see how that feels," says Dyer, whose new book, "Excuses Begone!: How to Change Lifelong, Self-Defeating Thinking Habits," is out later this month.

Picturing yourself exercising will help make it a reality.

Dyer says the most important time to focus on the benefits of exercise is during the last five minutes before you go to sleep. "Don't review all the things that are wrong, all the things that are missing in your life, all the reasons why you can't exercise," he says. "Think about what it feels like to be in the ideal shape you'd like to be."

And remind yourself of the most important reason to exercise: to live a healthier life. "If you don't take time for exercise," Dyer says, "then you're going to have to take time for being sick or out of shape."

When it comes to his own health, Dyer praises Bikram, or "hot," yoga for ridding his life of chronic back and joint pain. Those who are new to exercise may want to start with walking or gentle yoga. Dyer also meditates daily, which he recommends for everyone.