Did you know that conventional "weight loss" programs experience a 98% failure rate? Why? People lose lean muscle and not fat! Once they resume normal eating habits, the weight returns and then some! Did you know it takes your body 2 TIMES the energy to maintain muscle then it does to maintain fat? The more muscle you have, the quicker your metabolism will be! Without muscle, your metabolism will grow slower and slower throughout the years. Oxygen is imperative in order to optimally burn fat. Therefore, cardiovascular activity is essential! Water may be the only true "magic potion" for permanent weight loss. Drink your WATER! Without carbohydrates, your body will go "searching" for fuel.... however it doesn't get this fuel from your fat storage, it first takes it from your muscle! KEEP YOUR CARBS! To keep and maintain a healthy fit body you need all of the essentials: fats, proteins and carbs! Always perform a proper warm up and stretch when doing your workouts to avoid injury and help recovery! Incorporating cardiovascular exercise into your weight training regiment is sure to give you a lean, toned body! Finding a trainer that you can relate to is imperative! Make sure your trainer not only helps you, but is leading by example in their own daily lives. If someone is "walking the walk" themselves, they can surely help you to do the same. If your in the early stages of fitting a workout regimine into your lifestyle, start simple! Just GET MOVING and gradually add other changes! If you add too much, too fast it will not be a good experience for you. Adjust one step at a time! Sugar Free? or Fat Free??? If you have to pick, pick the products with LESS SUGAR! Your body can actually utilize the fat better than it can the quick released sugar products! Keep a Positive Mental Outlook. There's a definitive connection between living well and healthfully, and having a cheerful outlook on life. Thought for the day: You can't be unhappy when you're smiling or singing. It is imperative to add in certain supplementations into your workout routines once they are established. Having a pre and post workout "meal" is essential to continued muscle growth and maturity. (ask your trainer for details)