if you've been sedentary for a long time, are overweight, have a high risk of coronary heart disease or some other chronic health problem, see your doctor for a medical evaluation before beginning a physical activity program
choose activities that are fun, not exhausting add variety develop a repertoire of several activities that you can enjoy that way, exercise will never seem boring or routine
wear comfortable, properly fitted footwear and comfortable, loose-fitting clothing appropriate for the weather and the activity
find a convenient time and place to do activities try to make it a habit, but be flexible If you miss an exercise opportunity, work activity into your day another way
don't overdo it do low to moderate level activities, especially at first. you can slowly increase the duration and intensity of your activities as you become more fit. over time, work up to exercising on most days of the week for 30-60 minutes
surround yourself with supportive people
use music to keep you entertained
don't just pay attention to the scale, pay attention to how your clothes are fitting
keep a record of your activities reward yourself at special milestones nothing motivates like success
it takes 48 hours between intense workouts for your muscles to completely heal so rest up
it only takes 31 min. of resistance training to keep your metabolism elevated for 38 hours afterwards so marathon workouts aren't necessary
