I've been overweight my entire life and about 11 months ago decided to finally do something about it. I stopped just passing by my local gym and signed up for a 2 year membership. It was challenging at first trying to talk myself into a daily 30 minute routine on the treadmill. It takes 21 days for something to become a habit. So I focused just on making it to day 21. Simultaneously, I also noticed that I was more careful with what I ate... and my portions were smaller. The pounds kept coming off... and little by little I increased the time on the treadmill and actually started to participate in the Zumba classes as well. I have had some speed bumps and have gotten off track a few times. Each time, I just think of it as another try at 21 Days and don't beat myself up on that delicious piece of chocolate cake I HAD to have last week.
I hope this helps.