If you have never exercised, you will want to start with a simple workout routine. Before you begin any program of physical activity, even a simple workout routine, you should check with your doctor. There are three components to any successful exercise program. The first is flexibility. Your simple workout routine should include some stretching. When we don’t exercise, we lose range of motion. Gentle stretches that are held for a few seconds help restore flexibility. Yoga, Tai Chi, and Chi Qong all develop flexibility and have the added benefit of reducing stress. You can try out videos from your local library and then buy the ones that you like. The second component is cardiovascular or aerobic. These exercises get your heart rate up and increase your rate of breathing. Walking briskly, swimming, bicycling and dancing are examples of aerobic activities that you can include in your simple exercise routine. A good way to start is to purchase an inexpensive pedometer. A pedometer measures how many steps you take. For the first week, keep track of how many steps you take each day doing your normal activities of daily living. Gradually increase your steps until you reach 10000 steps a day, the recommended amount. The third component is strength training which includes weight lifting workouts. Strength training can also be accomplished through the use of resistance bands and by using your own weight, for example, pushups, planks, and squat thrusts. With just a little research, you can find easy workout routines in your local library or bookstore. The most important thing to consider is that your workout should incorporate things that you enjoy doing. For people who have very little motivation to exercise, fitness boot camps might be the answer. In these camps you work as a group with an instructor who acts as coach and motivator. If you have not been a fan of regular exercise, you will want to be careful if you choose boot camp as your option. Listen to your body. Pushing beyond your limits could cause injury.