Time To REALLY Start Getting Fit For The New Year

Ok, now that we're about a week into the New Year and you may have jumped into some uber-workout program, killed yourself working out too hard and have started fading, it's time to get real.

Instead of deciding to go from completely out of shape to "The Incredible Hulk" or "Tiffany the Supermodel" within 30 days, decide on a slow and steady approach. Pardon the pun, but the way to start getting in shape is with small bites.

If you don't do ANY exercise, commit to going for a 10 minute walk once a day. If you already do a bit of walking, increase it to 20 minutes a day at a faster pace.

This will get you (and your body) used to regular physical activity and it won't burn you out on the whole idea. Of course don't expect to see your abs in 2 weeks if you're starting out this way, either.

After a few weeks graduate from just walking to some higher intensity work like a light jog on the treadmill or elliptical trainer. Eventually throw in some weight bearing exercises as well.

Although I think the TV show The Biggest Loser is awesome and inspiring, if you throw yourself into a hard core routine without the benefit of a personal trainer that can be there 5-6 times a week for you, you're just going to burn out and give up.

So start slooooow.