This fact frustrates so many people trying to achieve a fitness or weight loss goal: It takes time (sometimes, lots of it). You didn't become out of shape overnight, and you're not going to get back in shape overnight, either. If you have a goal, start early (6 months to one year depending on how ambitious your goal is). This allows you to work on your goals while allowing for setbacks; trust me, everybody has setbacks on their way to a goal, no matter how disciplined they are. General fitness, cardiovascular health, and muscle building all take time -- be patient and keep going!