There really is no secret to becoming a healthy weight. Quick fix diets don’t work and they are not healthy. To be a healthy weight, think of it as a math problem:

Calories In = Calories burned ==> Healthy Weight

In other words, if you burn up by exercising the same number of calories you take in by eating, then you won't gain weight. So, how do you get yourself moving? Here's a tip:

Think about what you do everyday to be active. If you are not active, ask yourself, ” Why not?”

Here are some common reasons or excuses for not being active:

“I don’t have the time”

Like anything else, you need to make time to exercise. Think about how much time you spend in front of the TV or on the computer. Take 10 or 15 minute breaks from the TV or computer and do some exercise like walk in place or jumping jacks. Some kids use their computer for exercise or video games, like this YouTube video on Dance Dance Revolution also shown in the pic above. Or you can download an iPod exercise podcast.

“My family doesn’t have money for a gym. There’s nowhere to exercise!”

Exercise doesn’t have to be in the gym. Most schools have an outdoor track. Does your neighbor hood have sidewalks? Have a backyard? Have a dog that needs to be walked? You can exercise anywhere, even listen to your favorite music and dance around your bedroom. All you need to do is MOVE around.

“No one else I know has to exercise, why should I be the only one?”

Maybe you need to be the motivation for your friends and family to get moving too. Think of fun activities for you and your friends and family. Schedule a time and activity and stick to it. You are more likely to keep exercising when you have a few exercise buddies to talk to and have fun.

“People will stare at me.”

It’s common to feel this way. More than likely other people are thinking about themselves. Bring a friend along and have fun.

The most important thing about exercise is that you pick an activity that you like!

Make this a healthy week!

 (Click here for past week's tips)