Motivation to keep moving

Starting an exercise program is just the first step. Here are some tips for sticking with a new routine or reinvigorating a tired workout:

• Set some goals. It’s always a good idea to begin or modify a workout program with a goal in mind. If your primary goal is to reduce stress in your life and recharge your batteries, your specific goals might include committing to walking during your lunch hour three times a week or, if needed, finding a baby sitter to watch your children so that you can slip away to attend a spinning class.

Wall arch

The Wall arch stretches your shoulders and calves while toning your back and abdomen:

• Stand facing the wall with both arms at your side. Your feet should be six inches apart and six inches from the wall.
• While inhaling, tighten your abdominal muscles and stretch both arms up to touch the wall.
• Exhale and lower both of your arms to the starting position.
• While inhaling, reach up with your right arm to touch the wall and stretch down with your left arm.
• Exhale and lower your right arm to the starting position.

According to a recent study 75 percent of U.S. adults are projected to be overweight or obese by 2015. Americans consume anywhere from 150 to 300 more calories than they did three decades ago and half of those calories come from liquid.

A new study out of John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health finds that reducing liquid calories, especially from sugar-sweetened drinks such as punches, fruit juices and sodas, helps people lose weight and keep it off.