Exercise Adherence - How do you stick to it?

Let's talk about adherence. Webster's dictionary defines adherence as: 1) the act, action, or quality of adhering (to hold fast or stick by as if by gluing), 2) steady or faithful attachment.
As a trainer, one of the first things I address with any potential client is their support network. Both the American Council on Exercise (ACE) and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) have done extensive studies showing a direct relationship to support and individual adherence with fitness goals.
What does this mean to you? How do we translate this information into tangible and positive outcomes in our goals toward healthier lifestyles?
First, do you have the support of your spouse or partner? In my practice, I have seen the gamet of "support."
One couple that I work closely with have had their share of adherence obstacles. From individual injuries to juggling work and family time, they are an example of what we all struggle with - balance. I use them as an example because through all of this, the husband created a 'weekend retreat' for his wife, complete with massages, spending money for new workout clothes, and several personal training sessions with a trainer at a club out of the Bend area. I was able to help put the surprise together and so pleased to see such support from one partner to the other. This is exceptional! And, perhaps the exception for many: I have also heard the other end of the spectrum.
"My husband doesn't care what I look like. I don't even think he notices."
"My wife doesn't come to the gym. It's not her thing."
To these individuals I say more power to you. Your commitment to your well-being will not only benefit you in a healthy lifestyle, but may even rub off on those partners you have described above. The reality, however, is that without the close support of the spouse/partner many people slip into complacency with regard to their exercise and diet.
How do you combat this? My answer to that is to surround yourself with like-minded individuals with common healthy lifestyle goals. These determine lifestyle choices! Consider joining an outdoor group of individuals. Summer or winter, there are groups catered to sport specific outings such as cycling, cross-country skiing, hiking and snow-shoeing.
Cardio classes are a great way to enjoy your increased heart rate and laugh with like-minded individuals about the joy of what I fondly call "torture at the gym!" Small group training is also a more affordable and socially beneficial way to establish that network of well-minded, healthy individuals.
As a personal trainer, of course I will also state the need of the individual to have a 'program' catered to their specific needs. The trainer, in creating this program, should also assess prior injuries, as well as weight room experience and their future client's current 'comfort' level in the gym. All of these factors will determine your specific program: the location, intensity and duration.
When choosing a personal trainer, take into consideration their personality and how you both interact. I have one client who swears I save her money because I not only serve the purpose of motivator in her fitness regime, but when we get together, we 'hash out' all the world's problems - successfully, I might add! Thus, I am her therapist too.
Adherence seems such a clinical word for just getting in there, out there, up there....and doing it. Sticking with it. Perhaps a better way to look at your commitment to your healthy lifestyle choices is to remember what it was like being a child. We surrounded ourselves with playmates, we played, and that was the ticket.
So, search your pocket for those memories, find that e-ticket to fun and grab a few friends along the way.