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Exercise is a very important ingredient in any successful weight loss program. If I didn’t know this before I changed my lifestyle, I sure know it now.
 
Every morning, I go for a long walk along the lake in Cleveland. Rain or shine. My dog, Jerry, a 7-year-old Golden Retriever, knows the routine so well that while I’m pulling on my work-out clothes, he heads downstairs and waits for me by the door.
 
Let’s set the record straight. I don’t run. Never have, and I really don’t care to in the future. My arthritis is too bad, and because I didn’t start my active lifestyle until I was in my mid 40’s, I have learned to listen to my body, which is happier with a long, brisk walk than with a run.
 
 
To walk regularly, you need good walking shoes. Every spring, I head to my neighborhood running store and treat myself to a new pair of shoes. Since there are so many choices, and it’s always hard to pick just one, I set up a wish list: fit my foot, stay in budget and hope it’s a shoe that isn’t too ugly.
 
I’ve made plenty of mistakes. As hard as it is to admit, I am drawn to brightly colored shoes. After I suffered through blisters, I learned color is the last thing I should be concerned with. I also learned you don’t need to spend a fortune to buy a high-quality, good-performing shoe. A great shoe can be had for around $100.
 
For the first couple of years, a pair of Asics fit my criteria each time. But this spring, I left with a pair of Reeboks. The best fit outweighed brand loyalty.
 
In the first few months, I added a pedometer to keep track of my steps and an iPod filled with my favorite tunes to make my walks more enjoyable. I often tell people I have literally walked my butt off in my lakeside community. I even keep a pair of walking shoes in my desk at work so I can get active on my lunch hour.
 
I cherish my walking time. Not only do I get fresh air, but I also use the time to think through problems and plan my day. “Time for me,” is the way I look at it. I am not setting any speed records, but I do try to keep a good, consistent pace – stopping only to be a good neighbor or to pickup after Jerry, my four-legged walking companion.
 
Cross training is also included in my daily routine. I have incorporated biking, swimming, weight training and Pilates into my new life. I’m not sure what I can bench press, but my clothes look good on me, and that is what counts to this middle-aged chick.
 
I even turned the empty space in my basement into a home gym. It isn't anything fancy, but it's worked for me.
 
Here are few of the readily available tools I have found useful:
 
• ACCUSPLIT AE170 Pedometer with Steps, Distance, and Calories Burned. My dad gave me my first pedometer. I have used this brand for over five years, and I just love it. Every journey starts with a single step, and this product has helped me keep track of my progress.
 
• The Biggest Loser Workout, Volume One— Great workout that will tone and shape. Good place to start.
 
•The Biggest Loser Workout: Power Sculpt and Cardio Max — This two-DVD series is a wonderful second step in getting fit.
 
• Gaiam Pilates taught by Ana Caban — Pilates is much easier to learn from a DVD than yoga. Half the time while learning yoga you are bent like a pretzel making it hard to see the TV. Plus, Ana is great instructor. In order to fully utilize the video, make sure to grab a Covered Resistance Cord Kit at the same time as the DVD.
 
• Core Secrets by Gunnar Peterson — Good whole-body workouts. Focuses on building a strong core and overall flexibility.
 
• Bring your bike inside and put it on a stationary rack
 
• Hand weights and toning bands
 

Lisa Griffis has lost over 185 pounds through diet, exercise and sheer determination.  She is a member of the TODAY’s show “Joy Fit Club” and a regular ShareWIK.com columnist. Visit her website at lisagriffis.com.

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More articles by Lisa Griffis

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