Because I've been getting a lot of questions about starting a workout program and -- more importantly -- sticking with a workout program, I decided to give you a step-by-step plan to follow. Research has shown that the first month of exercise is make-or-break time. If you can get through just 30 days without giving in to your old, inactive lifestyle, you're on your way to developing a good exercise habit.

This schedule, developed with the help of Gina Allchin, one of my colleagues at Plus One Fitness, will provide the guidance and structure you need to get through that first month. Good luck!

Day 1-7: Add Activity
Do anything and everything that constitutes movement and activity without worrying about timing it or measuring it. Anything goes.
• Bypass the escalator and take the stairs
• Get off the train one stop early and walk the
  rest of the way
• Take a walk with your kids
• Play chase and fetch with the dog
Aim to increase your activity to four out of seven days. (Hint: This is a good habit to get into whether you're a regular exerciser or not.)

Day 8: Make a List
Write down your personal reasons for wanting to exercise. What's in it for you? What are your goals? Make them as detailed and specific as possible. (Saying you want to lose weight is good; saying you're at 28 percent body fat and would like to get to 24 percent is even better.) Tack this list to your fridge, your mirror, your pillow -- anywhere you are likely to see it often. Every time you read the words you've written, it'll remind you why you want to get in shape, and you'll feel fired up.