Top Fitness Tips

Dial-up the fun because it helps you exercise longer and harder – and it puts the kibosh on dreading workouts. Crank up the music and dance like nobody's watching. Take a Zumba or pole-dancing class. Play tag with your kids.

Social media can boost your motivation and keep you on track. Announce your fitness goals on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. "You'll be surprised how many people help." They'll rally behind you, offer tips, and steer you away from missing a workout.

Do stretches in the grocery line. Do ballet moves while pumping gas. Take the stairs. Sitting in traffic? Squeeze your lower abs, then release. "You'll be amazed at how much you can develop your core strength while driving," Ramsay says.

Positive self-talk can boost your motivation. Look in the mirror and observe how strong your muscles are. Applaud yourself for getting fit. Recognize the goals you've met.

If you dread a long workout, break it into small chunks. "Five minutes here, 5 minutes there -- it all adds up.". Stretch for 10 minutes before your morning shower. Take a brisk, 20-minute walk at lunch. Lift weights while you wait for your pasta water to boil.

It makes you more flexible, relieves muscle tension, and improves posture. It also helps you tune in to your body. No time? No problem. Stretch while watching TV or lying in bed.

"Unless you're a pro athlete, they're not necessary.". Sports drinks are loaded with extra calories. Try water with lemon instead.

While pedaling on an exercise bike, add 30-second sets of bicep curls and overhead tricep extensions. Add bursts of shoulder presses while you walk on the treadmill.