Spring forward and slim down

That’s right. Get up and get yourself moving, whether it’s walking, swimming, biking or running. Try to do at least 15 minutes a day of aerobic activity. It is essential for good health and will burn excess calories.

Americans are notoriously obsessed with body weight. Weigh yourself once and measure against the BMI (body mass index). Then put your bathroom scale in the closet for a few months. Scales can be inaccurate, misleading and a psychological deterrent to your success.

Excess body fat is a killer. Learn how to measure and manage your body fat percentage by using body fat calipers. Body fat measurement is a more accurate indicator of health and wellness than weight alone.

Americans take in too many calories. Period. From supersized meals at fastfood restaurants to enormous servings at our favorite steakhouse, we are on the receiving end of an abundance of calories. Weight reduction is a caloric formula: calories in (through eating) versus calories out (through activity). It’s that simple. Stick with smaller portions.

Shift your fitness focus to your health, not just your appearance. You can add years to your life and reduce major health risks by following a sound nutrition and exercise program. And you’ll look better and feel better, too.

You’re ready to shed those bulky winter sweaters and slip into something more comfortable, but you’re worried that the remains of too many holiday parties are still hanging on your hips. Spring is the perfect time to get moving again. Why not take advantage of the next few months to get your body fit and lean for summer? These tips can help people who desire safe, effective weight loss.

If it sounds too good to be true, it is. From “fat burning” diet pills (dangerous) to electronic ab stimulators (really!), the promise of results without effort is just a marketing gimmick designed to reduce your wallet instead of your waistline.

Soda adds useless (and expensive) calories to your diet. Just drinking water rather than soda can put an extra $2-$3 in your wallet each day. Over one year, that adds up to more than $1,000 saved and 100,000 fewer calories consumed.

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Proper diet and exercise go hand in hand. One without the other is a recipe for failure. Just because you walked for 30 minutes doesn’t mean you can reward yourself with a pint of your favorite ice cream.

For many of us, winter is a time of sedentary living. Now that you are ready to commence a plan of exercise, make certain you stretch your muscles for at least one whole week before starting. This way, your muscles will be ready for exercise and you’ll be less sore.

Enjoy yourself now that spring is here. Get outdoors. Go hiking. Ride a bike. Make delicious, healthy meals outdoors, too. Try salmon and vegetables on the grill instead of the usual burgers and hot dogs.