Could not agree more. I never got in shape until I found a workout which I loved and could not wait to get back to (ironically, it was crossfit which the author calls out as "sadistic").

All of a sudden I even enjoyed planning my diet just on the chance that it would make me strong/faster in the next workout.

So, yes, like all in things in life, put the right incentives there (and just getting fit/healthy, obviously doesn't cut it for millions of Americans) and make it fun and it's a piece of cake.

And for those of you who haven't found your muse yet, I urge you to give crossfit a try. It lets your inner 5 year old run wild. You'll get to run/jump/climb/swing/throw heavy things until you crumble in a sweaty heap at the end. It is pure unadulterated fun. Plus, fat will run screaming from your body (but that's just a happy side effect).