Why People Quit Exercise Programs

Everyone begins exercising with good intentions. No matter what the motivation is, people have a drive to make themselves better than they currently are. Many men dream of bigger pecs and washboard abs, and countless women hope for slimmer waistlines and tighter buns. We all want something a little better than what we have, and we think we'll do anything to get it.

Yet a problem generally exists, one that is somewhat mystical and entirely frustrating. You see, too many people out there begin an exercise program with the end result in mind, and they unfortunately either forget or overlook all the important steps in between the first training session and the day they look in the mirror to see their goals come to fruition. It is this gap in thinking that leads to people feeling less than they should, and it causes the death of endless well-intentioned personal fitness programs.

Thus, the biggest question then is how exactly to avoid it. Well, as far as my experience has taught me, simply being aware of it is the best and most adamant defense against withering out and failing only a week into your new life.

With this in mind, consider the following ideas, shortcomings if you will, regarding that area between beginning and ultimate fitness.

It's easy: This might be the largest one. Some folks readily realize how hard changing your life will be, yet far too many think they'll just do it, without generating a legit plan. They think it'll be easy. Just turn it on, much like a light switch or a car. Well, if that is how you start, get ready for some serious bumps along the way. Not so much with the physical side, yet more so with the psychological demands of the daily commitment. In the end, it is consistent hard work that creates a difference. Know that at the beginning.

You'll be the magazine cover: Okay, maybe a little rough, but it is true to some degree. It is the rare person who finds intrinsic motivation. Most see something they admire and aspire to be like it. But, while that is a great motivation to get going, the chance of you looking like that is fairly slim. Not because you won't put in the work, but rather because you are different. Your body has its own way, its own path, and will look the way it will. Your body's image of fitness will come, so don't be disappointed if after months of P90X you don't look just like Tony Horton.

It'll happen tomorrow: Huge, absolutely huge. Too many people want to see results the next day. This idea is unrealistic and dangerous. Slowly, over time, your body will change, so the need for patience is paramount if you are to succeed. Don't quit if you don't see the impact you'd hope for after the first month. Stay dedicated to the concept of living a fit life. Sooner or later you'll begin to see results.

Fitness is an image: I know that everyone wants to look good. I know I do. This idea is what drives nearly every person's training. But, if any of us truly want the fitness plan to stick and not fade away, we need to see that being healthy is a feeling, not a look. You will get that feeling far faster than you will get the look, and it is that feeling that will keep you working. Believe in that sense and let it be your guide. If you do, staying dedicated will be much easier.

Overall, I have learned to be realistic. This does not mean sell yourself short or not believe in being amazingly fit. Instead, it means know that everyone has a timetable and that lack of patience will end even the most motivated people. Have a plan, be flexible in its approach, remain committed even when you don't want to, and watch for and celebrate the small results along the way.