Before you get to your activity plan, there are three things you need to do. First, see your doctor. Before beginning any exercise program, it is a good idea to go over it with your doctor. He or she will have detailed information about your body and any potential problems that might arise from following a particular exercise or diet pro- gram. This is important! Even if you just give your health-care provider a call, please make sure to solicit his or her opinion, and keep your doctor up-to-date on what you are doing for your body.

Second, understand that it takes commitment to achieve your goals. In today’s society, everyone wants the quick and easy answer. We want results and we want it now! However, with exercise, there is no immediate answer—it takes dedication and time. So, when beginning an exercise program, it is critical to understand that your goals will not be achieved overnight. You will feel confident that it will happen when you take the time to understand how your body is made and how it will respond to exercise.

Third, set a goal. Do you want to lose body fat, gain lean muscle mass, and add weight? Do you have a specific sport or activity in mind that you want to train for? Maybe you are frustrated because you have never been successful at exercise be- fore and you just want some new direction. This book is intended to give you options for whatever you want to achieve. We have supplied some of the most common goals people set and the plans you need to achieve those goals. And remember, after you set the long-term, broad view goal, do not forget to set immediate and midrange goals.

For example, walking once around the block every day this week, twice next week, and an entire mile by the end of the month. Whatever your goals may be, combining them with unwavering commitment will get you the body you always wanted. Ultimately, this book is about combining the knowledge of how your body is built and your own personal goals in order to organize your activity program for the best results.