Establishing an exercise routine is something most Americans know they need to do. However, many are unable to follow through on the routines they plan. Part of the reason for this is that people often plan activities that don't suit their personalities, physical condition, circumstances and location. Carefully analyzing these things before you begin a fitness routine can contribute to your ability to stick with it over the long run.

Ask yourself whether you have a lot of self-discipline, or whether you require some outside motivation to stay on task. If you're self-disciplined, running, walking or swimming laps may be a sufficient and rewarding routine. However, if you're a very social person, inviting a companion to join you as you exercise may be beneficial. If you're the type of person who is stimulated by learning new things, aerobics, pilates or yoga classes may be more suitable. However, do not count on money as a motivating factor. Many people have expensive gym memberships that they never use, a waste of money and of health benefits.

Your physical condition is also important in determining what fitness routine will be appropriate for you. For example, people with asthma or environmental allergies may have trouble exercising outdoors where pollens and pollution can trigger attacks. These people might get better results from indoor swimming, where the air is filtered and the humidity can help open sinuses and lungs. Similarly, people with arthritis or joint injuries need to find low-impact exercise that will not aggravate those conditions.

Finally, take a hard look at your circumstances. Is your schedule regular enough to allow you to take a regular exercise class? If you work irregular hours or changeable shifts, an individual exercise program might be better for you. On the other hand, if you are retired or stay home with a child, a regular exercise class may give you just the incentive you need to get out of the house.

Your location will also dictate the duration, time and components of your fitness routine. If you live in a moderate climate with little variation in temperature and precipitation, you can count on being able to pursue the same routine year-round. However, if you live in a climate where it gets excessively hot during the summer or cold during the winter, you will need to establish a mix of outdoor and indoor activities in order to stay active year-round.