Do it like Denise: Lifestyle tips from our favorite fitness expert

Denise Austin has enthusiastically inspired thousands of people at all fitness levels to reach their personal goals. Over the last twenty-five years she has authored several books and sold more than 20 million exercise videos and DVDs. You may have seen Denise in action on TV on the 'Daily Workout' or 'Fit and Lite'.

Denise is now sharing her expertise with Rite Aid and our customers. Below are her top ten tips in choosing health and fitness as part of your daily lifestyle.

1. Start With the Daily Dozen
Working out is a big commitment. So start small. Begin with exercising just twelve minutes a day. This will get you on the right track and soon exercise will become a healthy habit.

2. 30-Minute Fitness Strategy
Once you get used to the daily dozen, try increasing your routine to a half hour. A good formula to follow is 20 minutes of cardio, 5 minutes of weight training and 5 minutes of stretching, leg lifts and/or sit ups. To keep it interesting, mix up your workouts each day.

3. Stretch Three Times a Day
Stretching reduces stress by letting you take time out for yourself. It also improves your posture, lengthens your muscles and improves your strength, energy, and circulation.

4. Boost Your Metabolism
Did you know that while you build muscle you are also boosting your metabolism? For each pound of fat you replace with muscle, you burn another 35-50 calories a day. So work out and burn up.

5. Keep it Steady
In order to keep your metabolism steady, try to always eat three small meals and two healthy snacks per day – every 3-4 hours. This will prevent your blood sugar levels from dipping, which can lead to overeating.

6. Nutrition Insurance
While we strive to get all the nutrients we need from food, that is not always possible. A good supplement regimen typically includes a multivitamin and adds supplements, for example vitamin C, fish oil, calcium and vitamin D, to address nutrients we may be missing. Ask your Rite Aid Pharmacist which supplements are right for you.

7. A Healthier You Equals a Happier Family
Working out takes time, but it is time well spent. The benefits of your newfound energy and positive attitude will certainly be something your family enjoys as much as you do.

8. Find Joy in Your Workout
Try listening to your favorite music, getting outdoors for a hike, or spending time with a friend. Enjoying your workout is a great way to stay on track.

9. Stay Positive
Exercise can give you a positive outlook. Not only will getting fit help you look and feel better, but it can reduce anxiety and improve your mood. Don't be your own worst critic – be proud of yourself for getting out there and working out.

10. Keep it Fresh
If you find yourself bored with a routine, try something new. Challenge yourself with various fitness options such as yoga, pilates, biking, swimming, hiking, boot-camp, and dance.

This information is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a personal physician. Please consult your physician before beginning this or any other weight loss and/or exercise program. Children under the age of 18 should only participate in a weight loss program with the parent or guardian's approval. Due to the specific dietary and medical needs of Type 1 Diabetic and pregnant or nursing women, these people should not participate in a weight loss program that is designed to achieve ketosis.