It has been an interesting year for the economy and I have yet to meet a person who wasn't affected in some form. Many people have become stressed, anxious and downright sick from the unknown rollercoaster nature of the market. The lack of control has a huge impact on our general wellness, and its impact can be very grave.

This is what I love about diet and exercise: It is truly the one thing we have 100% control over. How much we do physically, and what we put into our bodies is entirely our decision. Given this unique control, doesn't it make sense to try to do a good job for ones self? See it as a gift from me to me. . . that is FREE! Here are some fun and very affordable ways to get healthy in a sick economy.

Walk, run, or bike to work, the gym, or to the store and save gas $$ and burn some serious calories: I know for some this is not realistic, but I have several clients that do this year round (and they don't exactly work close to home either). It takes a little planning ahead and wearing the right clothing, and you will find that the time it takes you to get there is quite rewarding and peaceful (no road rage!).

Instead of going to movies, take the kids and/or yourself to a park to go on a hike, run with the dog, and frolic on the playground. Not only is this activity free (unless there is a small park fee), it gets you outside in the fresh air while interacting with others and enjoying the beauty of nature. These types of recreation are "mindless" calorie burners as we are having so much fun that we do not see it as a chore!

The obvious money saver is to eat out less. This one is hard for many; myself included. Cooking at home is good for your wallet, but the calories you could potentially save are the best benefit. You do have control over the menu choices, but after that order goes back into the kitchen, heavens knows what the cook is adding in to "improve" the taste, while sabotaging what you think is a healthy meal. So, if you do go out to eat, try to limit the number of times per week you do so. Also, skipping dessert and limiting alcoholic beverages will also hugely add to your savings and not to your backside!

There are also several exercises you can do at the home that do not require buying any equipment. I tell many of my clients that your body is the best exercise machine you can have and it is F-R-E-E! Push-ups, crunches, squats, lunges, running, and jumping are just a few of the awesome examples of very effective and free moves using just your own bodyweight. You can also use house hold items such as phone books and milk gallons if you would like to add resistance.

These points may seem like no-brainers, but it is probably true that they are easier said than done. Try to make a realistic plan to slowly chip away at what your wallet and body do not need. The economy is sagging, drooping, and slowing down but this won't happen to you if you are careful to pay attention to where your money is going and by getting active!

(It is important to remember to consult a physician before beginning an exercise program and possibly a Certified Personal Trainer to ensure correct form.)

Issue Mantra: "To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift."

Steve Prefontaine