Start small. If you have decided that physical activity might be worth a try, start small. Don't take any drastic steps, and don't feel that you must tell everyone you know. The goal is simply to move your body more. People might start by turning the television to an exercise channel, or using an exercise DVD. Some people like to tie on a pair of tennis shoes and take a walk around the block. Others want to swim, work out at a gym, or put on some of their favorite music and just dance. You can take your time and figure out as you go along what is the most fun for you. By trying "a little of this and a little of that," you will be able to build slowly from a little exercise at home to a full-fledged exercise program. Taking things step-by-step is the key.

Start with something you like to do. It can be hard to get going, so to help you follow through, write your personal exercise plan on your calendar. Make a determination to exercise three times per week for six weeks. If you don't already enjoy any type of exercise, don't despair. Many people have to take some time to find a type of exercise that is pleasurable to them. Start by finding a way to add a few steps to someplace you are already walking. If you need to walk to the store, then go around the block the long way, on the way to the store. If you drive, park the car at the far end of the parking lot to add a few steps. Once you start walking, you will be likely to feel the healthy benefit of physical activity, and your body will start to want to do more.

The studies show that a person needs to exercise about three times a week for at least six weeks to get the full benefit. During that first six weeks, you may have to really use your mental power to keep yourself going! When you feel like quitting, look at your calendar and press yourself to hang in there until you reach the last day you circled on your plan.

If you notice you have gone back to thinking in the fearful, negative old-habit manner, you can catch yourself and remind yourself that you will just keep on following your own beneficial plan. Keep it up as if you believe it will help you feel better, even if you don't really think it will.