1. The very best exercise program is one that positively stimulates the body, the mind, and the emotions.

2. Remember, your body is smart and adapts quickly - thus the dreaded "plateau." Keep alternating your activities and add something new like stair climbing or cycling, every few months.

3. You're not alone! No one is exempt. For good health and fitness, we ALL must eat right and exercise. Find an exercise buddy or an exercise group. You don't want to let anybody down, so you'll be sure to show up! You show up - you WIN!

4. Fitness is simple. No one said it was easy. Just simple. When you look at your fitness routine do your best to keep it simple and manageable. The number one rule towards achieving your fitness goal is: schedule it. Eliminate excuses. Make it a "must" rather than a maybe.

Check back for Simple Tips to Better Fitness, Part II, on September 12.

-Tina Vindum, Outdoor Fitness