How do I start exercising when I am very out of shape?

Start small and focus on consistency over intensity. Begin with 10 to 15 minute walks daily, which builds the habit without overwhelming your body. After a week or two, gradually increase duration or add simple bodyweight movements like chair squats, wall push-ups, or marching in place. The key is making it easy enough that you actually do it. Expect some soreness early on, but sharp pain means stop. Rest days matter, so aim for movement 3 to 4 times per week initially. Tracking your progress, even just noting that you completed a walk, helps motivation. Most people fail by starting too hard and burning out, so resist the urge to go all-in immediately. Slow and steady genuinely works better when you're rebuilding fitness.