Most people know regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health. But how many of us start a workout program with great intentions, only to quit as work, school, kids and other time demands become overwhelming? Research shows a lot -- about one-half of people who begin an exercise routine drop out within six months to one year.

How can you ensure that you don't become one of these statistics?

1. Exercise first thing in the morning. Research shows that people who exercise in the morning are the most consistent with their routines. "Exercising first thing in the morning is the best prevention for lack-of-time and lack-of energy problems," says Kiana Tom, a fitness role model and host of ESPN2's "Kiana's Flex Appeal" fitness program.
2. Schedule your workouts. Just like a doctor's appointment, school class or business meeting, marking your calendar with an exercise time enhances the likelihood that you will work out consistently. Don't think you magically will "find" time to exercise; write it down and honor it as you would any other appointment.
3. Set small, realistic goals to start. Don't set yourself up for failure by committing to exercise everyday for one hour if you've never participated in a regular workout routine before. By setting small goals you can achieve, such as three 30-minute sessions each week, you make it easier to experience success quickly.
4. Vary your workouts. For most of us, doing the same workout daily can cause boredom. Lift free weights one day, use a treadmill the next and take an exercise class the next. Premium cardiovascular equipment in health clubs and that you can purchase for your home, such as that made by Life Fitness, offer a variety of innovative workouts that can help keep each exercise session interesting.
5. Partner with workout buddy. People who exercise with a friend or group tend to be more consistent. Make appointments to exercise with a spouse, neighbor or friend in the health club.
6. Find a diversion. If you really don't enjoy exercising, try listening to music, watching TV, reading a magazine or even surfing the Internet ( accessible on some cardiovascular equipment in health clubs nationwide) to help keep you moving.
7. Hire a personal trainer. A personal trainer can assess your fitness level, develop a program to meet specific goals and measure your progress. Also, personal trainers can show you different exercises to help vary your routines.
8. Document your progress. Seeing how far you have come or how much you have accomplished can be a powerful motivator. Tracking your exercise routine, whether it is the number of minutes jogging on a treadmill or the amount of weight you are lifting, provides immediate visual feedback of your commitment.
9. Allow yourself a break if necessary. Don't give up if you miss a few days, or even weeks, of your exercise routine. What is important is getting started again as soon as you can.
10. Reward yourself for your successes. Remember how good you feel after exercising when you don't want to work out. Reward yourself with healthy options, such as exercise apparel, new music or a massage.

"Above all, judge your exercise success by how you feel overall - not by a number on the scale," says Tom. Armed with these tips, you will be ready to stick to your exercise routine and make it a lifelong, healthy habit.

 

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