The temptations of the holidays. You know they're around the corner. All those wonderful high calories that mark the festivities and that account for an average seven-pound gain for Christmas. This year, do yourself a favor and go into December in a little better shape.

The month-long Walktober campaign to increase physical activity got underway Oct. 1, but like an inviting pile of autumn leaves, you can jump in anytime. Go to www.we-go.org or call 607-547-1870 for all the information you need.

Designed to encourage everyone to be a bit more fit, the Walktober Challenge was designed as a friendly competition between WE-GO members and Bassett Healthcare employees, but is open to everyone. The challenge includes incentives, prizes and a virtual walk along the Appalachian Trail to help keep everyone motivated.

This spectacular season is a perfect time to get off the sofa and away from the computer and revel in the autumnal splendor of Upstate New York. Still, if the thought of "exercise" gets you yawning, try a change in perspective. Think in terms of moving, instead of exercising. For example, I tallied over 16,000 steps one day cleaning the house and clearing the flowerbeds. That's about seven miles of motion without donning spandex, and it had the added bonus of accomplishment.

One of the constant reasons (notice I did not say "excuses") for not being active is lack of time. That can be valid.

If you're working 70 hours a week at a sedentary job, plus the hours devoted to the mechanics of living (child rearing, domestic bliss, community obligations, sleeping) it doesn't leave many hours to suit up and sweat. But the price for inactivity is too high - obesity, cardiac health, diabetes, cancer - is too high. Not exercising is not an option.

The Walking Example Group offers a lot of ways to add action to a seemingly inactive day. Walk at every opportunity. Don't even bother to look for a close parking. Leave elevators to heavy loads. Do not rent golf carts. Get up from that computer every hour and walk 10 minutes.

It will clear your head and make you more efficient, as well as making your heart pump. (Call if you want me to talk to your boss on this one.) Limit television viewing. Visit our website at www.we-go.org and visit www.americaonthemove for more hints and encouragement.

Join us for our Walktober Challenge. It's fun, it's effective and it's easier than you think.

First, last and foremost, you are you're primary caregiver. You and your body deserve that best you can do for yourself.

Brenda Berstler is the founder of the Walking Example Group (WE-GO) a non-profit organization encouraging walking and walkable communities. Visit their website at www.we-go.org.