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Step 1
Start by adding activity to you daily life. Most new exercisers try to add hour or two workouts. Then, when they don't see the results or are too sore, they give up. Instead, start walking or use beginners exercise DVDs that have simple routines. As you become more comfortable, keep adding more exercises.
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Step 2
Write everything down. People who record their exercise routines and keep food journals are often more successful than people who just wing it.
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Step 3
Focus on small habitual changes. Instead of going cold turkey when it comes to unhealthy food choices, replace one food item at a time. Maybe start by eliminating fried food or candy bars or gradually going from whole milk to skim milk. Instead of eating in front of the television, go for a walk or dance.
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Step 4
Continue educating yourself about health and fitness. Check out books at the library about diet and exercise, or purchase a book from the bookstore. Read reputable websites concerning health. Subscribe to health and fitness magazines. If you can afford it, take a class at a local community college.
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Step 5
Find a support group. Most people who successfully lose weight find a partner to cheer them on. Make health and fitness a family affair, or find a friend to workout with. If these options fail, join an online support group like Spark People for encouragement.
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Step 6
Don't give up if you temporarily fall off the wagon or decide to miss a day or two of working out. We're only human. We can't be perfect. Some people let a temporary setback throw them completely out of whack, and they binge or stop exercising for long periods of time. Remember there will always be a new meal and a new day get back on track.
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Step 7
Buy a reward outfit as a reminder of why you are working so hard. Don't get an outfit that's a size 0. Instead, if you are a size 16, get a size 12. It will give you something to look forward to.
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Step 8
Think of how every healthy decision makes you feel. Even if the scale is not moving, are your clothes looser or can you breathe better. These improvements mean more than a number.
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Step 9
Have fun. One of the top complaints about exercising and eating right is that dieters get bored. If the workout routine is getting stale, try something new. Buy a new DVD or take a dance class. If the food is getting boring, try new recipes.
