Have you ever wondered with all the weight loss programs offered today, why we are on the verge of a diabetic and obesity epidemic? Have you ever thought that maybe doctors and gym owners would rather you not know the right way to lose weight? Think about it? If we did, whose pocket would it hurt? On the other hand, maybe they just are not motivated enough to explain it us? Worse yet, maybe they don't even know how to help us long term?

Twenty years of health club management, fifty thousand hours of paid personal training sessions and working with some of the most famous people in the world tell me; we are focusing on the wrong things. What does it take to stay on an exercise and eating program? The answer may surprise you. It does not have to do with numbers you find on exercise or medical chart. It has to do with types of motivations, reasons, and supports.

Sure, New Years Eve comes around and we get motivated. We've all been there. However, getting motivated is not the problem, staying motivated is. This has to do with psychology. Figure out HOW you are motivated and WHERE your desires to exercise come from, and then you will have created some staying power.

Most of us have some unwanted behavior that at some point in time have sabotaged our quest for better health. Only to find ourselves back in the same situation the next time we get motivated. What doctors and trainers fail to help people understand is the reasons WHY? Each unwanted behavior has an underlying barrier that blocks our success. Until that is uncovered, we will continue to be the fattest nation on earth.

There are a few that use this approach and have had some success in keeping their weight off and body fat levels low. However, in the end many will only to be defeated in the long run by a little thing called pride. My experience has shown me that not asking for support, guidance and accountability is the biggest barrier most people have. So where is the magic?

It's not found in the doctor's office, nor is it found in the majority of the health clubs across the country. It's found inside you. Figure out your motives, reasons behind your behaviors and never ever be afraid to ask for help.

Do the doctor's and trainers want you to know? It sure doesn't look that way. Does it?

Greg Ryan

Greg Ryan is a high profile fitness expert and former employee of Kathy Smiths. Body building champion, public speaker and personal trainer to the stars. He is a best selling author of the Changing from the "INSIDE OUT" through real behavior change, smart eating and effective exercising.

Greg also is CEO of two successful weight loss and behavior change companies in Louisville, Kentucky. In his spare time he runs an internet weight loss e-book website.