Congratulations to those of our readers who are currently participating in the Lighten Up weight-loss challenge!!! You have taken the first and most important step towards a healthier lifestyle, and hopefully are having some fun and meeting new friends along the way.

Weight loss involves more than just monitoring caloric intake; exercise is a key component in any successful lifestyle change. For participants to whom exercise is a fairly new addition to their lives, here are some general guidelines:

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1. There is no “ideal time” of the day to exercise. This is largely a function of personal preference. Exercising will burn calories and elevate your metabolism whenever you engage in it! Remember to have a healthy pre-workout snack, consisting of low-fat protein and complex carbohydrates, so you will have fuel to burn!

2. What is the “best” exercise to do? The answer is simple: whatever you enjoy! Whether you are a treadmill walker or a track sprinter or a cyclist, an exercise which you find pleasurable is one that you will engage in consistently.

3. A combination of cardiovascular exercise and resistance training will expedite your path to a winning physique. Weight lifting will facilitate the development of lean muscle mass, which in turn will allow your body to burn calories more efficiently. Aim for 2-3 sessions of resistance training each week. Working out with a friend or fellow contestant can help encourage you to stay on track!

If you have any questions, feel free to email me at [email protected] and I’ll help you get on the road to a new, successful YOU!!!