To Stay Fit, Stay Motivated

Half of all people who begin a workout regime quit within six months. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, getting prepared for success is critical to making exercise a regular part of life.

"One of the greatest barriers to exercise is the perception that it takes special skill, ability or knowledge to have a successful experience," says Jeff Schlicht in the ACSM Journal. The report outlines four steps to what the authors call "self-efficacy." Learn proper exercise techniques from a professional; watch others your age or fitness level who have succeeded; solicit positive feedback from fitness professionals; and learn about the health benefits of exercise.

Internalizing the positive experiences will create a mindset of success that will help you stick with your program. And sticking with the program is the most important part of getting -- and staying -- in shape.