No bread, no profit. That’s the old motto that anyone who successfully followed a fitness routine sang in their head every day. Unfortunately, the average gym member quits after just six months, long before results really start to show. Take a look at some of these most common mistakes and make sure your exercise routine is up to date.

Go big or go home

I had an old football coach in high school who used to say “Practice doesn’t make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect” it really didn’t make sense to me then, or now. But I think he meant that if you want serious results you have to take serious action. The same principle applies to exercise routines. You’re not going to see toned thighs and a solid butt while reading a book and walking on a treadmill. You have to push yourself every day and maximize your training regimen.

Doing the wrong exercise routine

Think about where you learned your training program. Was it a training regimen of professional athletes on a 6-disc DVD set or a late-night infomercial? The soccer player’s exercise routine is set at a level that is unattainable for the individual just starting out. Even advanced weightlifters can’t match the workout routine of a professional athlete. If it’s not personally designed for you, you’re probably not getting the most out of it. Decide what your goals are, sit down with a personal trainer, and ask him or her to plan a specialized training program to fit your needs.

repetitive sessions

When you do the same exercise routine day after day, your muscle growth, weight loss, or strength gain will reach a point where the change is no longer apparent. To escape this stagnation, you need to change your training schedule every few weeks or once a month. Simply change your exercises or the amount of weight, repetitions, or duration of your training program.

improper technique

Incorrect exercise technique is probably the most common mistake in following an exercise routine. Without proper form, you are likely to see subpar results and possibly expose yourself to potential injury. Consult a personal trainer on form and technique when designing your exercise regimen.

If you set realistic goals, eat healthy foods, and follow a personalized training program, you can see amazing results relatively quickly. But remember, the two most frequently cited reasons for abandoning an exercise routine are lack of time and lack of results. So be patient, find 30 minutes a day, and you’ll be on your way to achieving your healthy living goals.