1) Consistency – If you don’t stick with it, it’s not going to work. Just like any exercise regime, you have to do it consistently to achieve your desired result. There are no short cuts.

2) Intensity – The tougher the exercise, the more weight you will loose.

3) Enjoyment – Love the exercise you are engaging in. If you don’t like to swim try running, if you don’t like to run try dancing. Find a workout that you like so you will stick to it.

4) Time – The length of your workouts is crucial to get the most benefits from aerobic exercises. Five minute walks around the block are a great idea, but if you push yourself to fifteen you will not only use more energy, but also condition yourself for further distances in the future.

5) Proper diet – Running a mile and then eating a three slices of pizza and a banana split after is probably not the best idea. Be sure to have a snack before you leave for your workout. Make sure to eat something with protein, like a cheese stick, along with something containing natural vitamins and sugars, such as baby carrots or a tangerine.

By doing this you will be providing your body with quick energy from natural sugars and vitamins, along with the protein to sustain your physical activity. Be sure not to eat so much that you give yourself a cramp, keep it light and easy.

During your exercise, be sure to drink lots of water. By drinking lots of water, you can get rid of the lactic acid created in your muscles. Water helps to dilute and lessen the acid built up in your muscle from your workout therefore reducing the amount of soreness in your muscles following the exercise.

After your workout, be sure to have another snack that has protein in it as well. This helps your body in the recovery process from exercising. Contrary to popular belief, once you are done exercising, your body is still working. It takes energy to cool down and you have to keep feeding your body’s need for energy.