Let's face it. When it comes to working out and getting in shape, most of us hit the gym for the treadmill or elliptical trainer to get that sweat-inducing workout that promises to burn mega calories.

As exhilarating as these workouts are, the reality is most of us also adapt to the cardio routine within a few short weeks, which means the effects will diminish over time and it gets harder and harder to burn more calories in less time. If your goal is to get in shape or lose weight, you'll need a strategy to get out of "cardio crazy" mode.

Signs that you're going cardio crazy include:

• Spending more than one hour on the cardio machines during each workout session
• Dreading your trip to the gym each day because the cardio workouts aren't fun anymore
• Obsessing about how many calories you've burned with each step on the stair stepper and every round of spinning classes

The best way to get out of a cardio rut is to add resistance training, weight lifting and different types of aerobic exercises into the weekly routine.

You can:
Hit the outdoors for a change of scenery and get started on a trail running program. Just strap on some super-grip running shoes and head off to the nearest state park or nature trail for a running route with resistance.

Take a deep breath and hit the yoga circuit. Pick up some comfy yoga capri pants and try Bikram yoga, which is guaranteed to make you sweat away your cares, or head outdoors for a sunrise yoga session to embrace the day. If you've been hitting the cardio machines a little too much lately, yoga can help bring your body into balance and give you a much needed stretch session.

Dive into swimming and water aerobics. Pick up a swimsuit and hit the diving board for a change of pace. Swimming is a great aerobic workout and burns several hundred calories per hour. You can also start training a number of core muscle groups with lap swimming or water aerobics. Pool routines will give your body a much-needed break from the usual cardio circuit.

Winter calls for spending more time indoors, gearing up for holiday season and overindulging in sweet and savory treats more often than not. When you're caught up in the whirlwind of revelries and festivities, it's much easier to skip the gym and put working out on hold until New Year's Resolution time rolls around.

Unfortunately, this may also mean you'll be greeting the New Year with a few extra pounds under your belt ... which is why you should pencil an anti-workout into your weekly schedule.

The anti-workout concept is simple; take up a new activity, hobby or pursuit that keeps you moving for at least 20-30 minutes but doesn't require you to hit the gym, change into workout clothes or even pick up special equipment.

All you need to do is try a new activity for the next 30 days. It's supposed to be fun, and it won't require a lot of motivation beyond taking that first step onto the skating rink, speed walking through the mall in the midst of a shopping blitz or just jumping into a snow fight with the kids. The idea is to get the benefits of a workout without accomplishing the impossible feat of completing a real workout.

Rearing to go? Here are some ideas to test out this winter season:

Dashing through the snow
Just like Santa and his reindeer, you can enjoy a sledding adventure that might just rev up that metabolism. Climbing up snowy banks and hills while lugging a sled can be a serious calorie burner.

Coordinating a holiday clean
Jump into a pre-spring cleaning event to clean up the place from floor to ceiling. Scrub those windows, polish the fireplace and rearrange the living room as quickly and efficiently as possible for a great anti-workout.

Escaping to a winter wonderland
Head out to the neighborhood ice skating rink to take in the fresh winter air while giving that lower body a killer workout.

Becoming a Wii Warrior
A few rounds of Nintendo Wii will keep you off the couch and taking on a new challenge. Plug in that Wii Fit and test your yoga, tennis or soccer skills - all from the great indoors.

It's that time of the year when tempting food and long days indoors fill up your daily schedule, leaving you little time to get to the gym or outside for an exercise session. If it looks like next year's New Year's resolution will be dominated by face time with a personal trainer, enrolling in cardio boot camp or trying out a new diet to peel off a few pounds, why not get a head start on your fitness wish list with a few extra trips to the gym?

Clocking in more gym time now means you can ward off excess pounds and prepare your body for Round 2 of your fitness frenzy before the Times Square ball drops. Here are some tips to stay motivated and get going on your fitness plan:

1. Pick out some trendy shoes. Sometimes a quick shopping session can lift your spirits and keep you motivated to finally hit the gym - so why not do it in style? Pick up a new pair of versatile running shoes or cross trainers so you can give yourself an excuse to put them to good use.

2. Pack for success. Load up a gym bag with all the necessities so you're always prepared to head off to the fitness center at a moment's notice. You'll be less likely to skip the gym when you have a bag sitting in the car or right by your door as a constant reminder.

3. Boost your spirits with a new gym outfit. A fresh pair of shorts, capris or other active wear can help you get your gym groove on in no time. Make a commitment to simply get dressed for the gym at a specific time during the day and give yourself only two choices: hit the gym or change back into your regular clothing. When you're all dressed and ready to go, you're much more likely to just get your gym circuit over and done with before you have a chance to quit!

Getting more gym time into your holiday schedule isn't as tough as it seems; just take action with any of these strategies so you can get a head start on your New Year's fitness resolutions.

If the daily exercise routine has taken a nosedive in the midst of holiday revelries, there's still time to commit to fitness resolutions you made so eagerly at the turn of the New Year... so you can trim down for the oncoming year.

Getting and staying in shape over the holidays can be a one of the biggest challenges of the season - even more challenging than getting that holiday gift list in order and battling the crowds during the pre-holiday mall chaos - so you'll need a plan to get through the season without piling on the pounds. If you're in dire need of a quick winter workout, add some of these shape-up strategies to your weekly schedule:

Become a Crack-of-Dawn Master
When the daily schedule is booked solid, being an early riser can give you a much-needed head start on the day's events. Wake yourself up with an invigorating workout and you'll be well on your way to a successful day. Head outdoors for a quick run or pack up that duffel bag for a quick circuit training session at the gym so you can greet the sunrise and get that workout off the to-do list.

Team up with a Fitness Buddy
Working out with someone else holds you accountable for your gym appointment, walking session or other physical activities you know you should be doing but just seem to be ignoring lately. Team up with a friend, coworker or family member to log time doing some form of exercise together. Having someone counting on you to get off that couch may very well make your fitness resolutions for the year.

Mall Walk for the Calorie Burn
If you're intent on shopping up a storm this holiday season, a good portion of your shopping time might involve trekking across the mall in search of the latest sales and specials. Make a date with your walking shoes and head out on an early-morning mall walking session to map out your plan. This will give you a chance to catch a glimpse of sales and offers in store windows. When push comes to shove on sale day, you'll have a shopping route ready to go!

As the holiday season hits a high note and your day is packed with errands, gift shopping and preparations for the family dinner, squeezing in a workout might seem like an impossible feat. However, keeping up with your health and fitness resolutions for the season might help you blast through the holidays and lower your stress levels; kicking it up a notch at the gym helps release endorphins - your body's natural painkillers - allowing you to literally sweat away your cares and release tension from that jam-packed schedule. Keep up with your workout circuit this holiday season with these simple tips:

1. Stock up on water. 'Water, water, everywhere,' should be your mantra as you go about your busy day trying to keep those energy levels running in high gear. Make sure you take a water bottle along with you on that trip to the gym and keep up with your daily 10-12 glasses by sipping on water throughout the day.

2. Pack the gym bag the night before. If you make going to the gym a last-minute decision in the morning, you're less likely to stick with a consistent routine. Pack your gym bag with all the essentials each evening so you only have to grab the bag and go in the wee hours of the morning.

3. Layer it up right. If you're skipping the gym in favor of a walking or jogging session in the great outdoors, make sure you're layering up with some cold weather basics to keep your body in good shape for the long haul. A long-sleeve mesh crew top, a couple of comfy sweatshirts and other layering pieces will help your body stay warm and protect you from the elements on that brisk winter day.

As always, makes sure you start and end your workout with a brief stretching session and give your muscles a chance to get stronger and reduce the risk of injury.

You can combat holiday stress like a pro with some simple fitness strategies. Plan ahead and stick with those workouts for a healthy and happy holiday season. At the very least, the extra workouts will let you justify that second helping of dessert.

Fitness gurus and personal trainers encourage us to try circuit training for that super-buff body we've been coveting all year, but when you're not disciplined enough to play boot camp master on every workout, chances are you just stick with your usual gym routine. Maybe this is the season to change things up and jump into some new activities? Heart-pumping winter sports including snowboarding, cross-country skiing and even snowshoeing. These are just a few ways to get out of that fitness rut and slip and slide into mega-calorie-burning mode.

If you're used to watching the ski bunnies from the comfort of your cabin all winter long, commit to at least one cross-country skiing session per week and enjoy a workout in the process. Skiing will get your metabolism revved up in no time, and it is the perfect excuse for taking in some fresh winter air. Just put on that puffy snow jacket or vest, grab some snow goggles and navigate down those slopes for a killer lower-body workout.

When you're anxious to try an extreme sport activity this season, head out on a snowboarding adventure with some boots and gloves that will keep you warm and protected against that harsh winter chill. Snowboarding will give you a chance to put your upper and lower body muscles to the ultimate test; you'll need to balance and maneuver that board across challenging terrain at a high speed, but this heart-pumping activity is sure to turn that calorie burn up a few notches.

No snow in your area this season? You can still change up your winter workout routine with a mountain biking trip or hiking excursion. Give that lower body the ultimate workout by adding weights to your ankles for resistance or loading up a backpack with extra gear. You can count on a super-calorie burning workout after just 20 to 30 minutes of constant movement.

Getting into a fitness rut is easy when your daily workout schedule consists of angst-ridden minutes of running on the treadmill and training for hours using the good old elliptical machine. Unfortunately, your body has probably adapted to the ho-hum routine, and you aren't burning off as many calories as you think during every workout. Jump into a fresh new workout routine to give your metabolism a boost and enjoy the great outdoors this winter.

When the holiday season calls for late-night dining, extra-large servings of festive treats and little time to head to the gym, livening up your fitness routine might help ward off any holiday pounds and relieve a little stress in the process. The holidays leave most of us with 5 to 10 pounds of extra baggage to be dealt with in the New Year, but you don't need to carry that extra weight when you have a fitness plan by your side. A few tweaks to your schedule are all it really takes to keep your health and fitness goggles planted firmly in position when the dessert tray rolls around.

Invest in a snazzy new gym bag to recommit to your fitness purpose. A stylish bag gives you a chance to show off the latest trends at the gym and may even prompt you to pack it up with your essential gear during a busy week. Pick up something fresh and trendy like the Columbia Metropolis Cybersling or the PUMA Runway Grip Bag and you might be inspired to head out to the gym more often than not.

Pick up a pair of cross trainers and join an indoor sports team in your neighborhood for a fun, stress-free way to burn off a few calories. Indoor sports like soccer and indoor tennis are great ways to relieve stress and work on your skills; a friendly game with the neighbors or a local team can keep you motivated to move, even in the midst of the holiday frenzy.

Ready to dance? Put on your dancing shoes for a tap or jazz session at your local community center and easily burn a few hundred calories per hour. You can jump and jive to your favorite tunes and pick up a few dancing skills in the process. A fresh new dance routine is a great way to keep moving during 'couch-potato' season. Plus, you'll have a chance to show off your moves at the next holiday party!

If going to the gym during holiday season just isn't making it on your to-do list, there are plenty of alternative ways to get up and get moving so you can stay in shape. Indoor sports and dance classes are just a few options. Think of creative ways to stay fit and healthy this season so you can ward off those holiday pounds.

When the forecast calls for snowstorms and subzero temperatures, heading outdoors on your usual morning run or biking excursion might earn itself a rain check status. Still, keeping in shape during the winter months is easier when you schedule yourself a few indoor sporting activities. You don't have to be an athletic superstar to take on an indoor roller skating challenge or show off your skills on the indoor soccer field. Just grab your gear and head off to a fun, heart-pumping activity that will get you that fitness fix!

Kick off your athletic shoes and strap on a pair of roller skates for a lower body workout like no other. Just track down a roller skating rink in your area for a fun, but challenging, fitness activity that will get your fitness routine into high gear. Be sure to get fitted for the right size so you're slipping and sliding on that rink for the right reasons.

If you're a soccer aficionado, head to the indoor field for a calorie-burning game that might just keep you in great shape this season. A pair of indoor soccer shoes will get you on track to soccer stardom; just look for a pair with extra traction and a flexible sole for extra comfort.

Missing those outdoor tennis games? Turn yourself into a racquetball enthusiast this season and get a terrific total body workout in the process. This fast-paced sport requires a lightweight pair of athletic shoes so you can maneuver around and play the court like a pro. Look for hard-court shoes with extra lining and cushioning for extra comfort.

When the day calls for a game of indoor volleyball, get yourself in gear with some supportive court shoes. A pair of lightweight shoes made with a molded toe and mesh inserts will give the extra support and comfort you need to stay on your toes for that fast-paced game.

From the roller skating rink to the indoor soccer field, you have few excuses to skip the fitness routine this winter. Grab your gear and take on that next fitness challenge with any of these indoor sports this season!

It's the season for charity walks, marathons and outdoor competitions that help raise funds for your favorite causes, but preparing for the big race demands a little more than your usual 20-minute walking routine. Exercising for good health is one thing, but getting buff for a competition is a completely different fitness scenario; you need the gear, you need time to train, and you need a crew to cheer you on as you race to the finish line.

Get things started with a pair of quality running shoes. You'll need a sturdy and reliable pair to help you run your route with success, so pick up a pair of super-cushioned soles to prevent major injuries. A soft and flexible sole made with breathable mesh and supportive cushions gives you that extra edge for race day. For comfort's sake, be sure to break them in with a trial run or two before the big day.

Next, you'll need some versatile and comfortable clothing. If you're training outdoors on those brisk fall or winter mornings, layer things up with a stylish half-zip that will keep moisture at bay. You can sweat yourself into oblivion without feeling a thing in one of these comfy tops; just pull it on over a tank or tee for some extra protection on those chilly days outdoors. If you're tackling an indoor track session, get moving in some Dri-FIT shorts that give you plenty of breathing space with extra ventilation; the polyester/spandex combo also keeps your skin dry during any intensive workout.

When it's time to keep time and beat the clock for your best performance, pick up an Ironman timex that will track your steps on any course. It's the easiest way to monitor each workout and make sure you get through the big event in record time.

And as you count down the days to race day, round up your cheering crew with a quick e-mail or phone call proclaiming your race for your chosen cause. You'll need a supportive troop to keep you in the race when the going gets tough.

A few tweaks to your weekly schedule and the right gear are all it takes to rev up that training routine and get yourself to the finish line like a pro!

You've been working hard to keep up with your gym routine all year long, but the holiday season can put even the most disciplined fitness guru to the test. The holidays call for round the clock errands, juggling a never-ending shopping schedule and organizing a grand family meal. The hustle and bustle of the season can leave you spent and less likely to stick with that early a.m. treadmill circuit. Still, there are a few ways to keep up with your healthy intentions. Here are some tips to stay motivated and get buff through this high-stress season:

1. Get serious about yoga. Yoga is a great workout no matter what your fitness level is, and yoga has the added benefit of relieving stress. Inhale and exhale your way to peace and tranquility in a comfy pair of yoga pants, which will keep you cool and calm when anxiety levels run high. Schedule yourself at least 1-2 sessions per week and greet the sunrise whenever possible.

2. Hit the slopes! If you're blessed with piles of snow over the holiday season, get out and have some fun in the great outdoors with some skiing or snowboarding. You'll be working that upper and lower body to the max as you take in that crisp winter air. No snow to be found? Make your way to the nearest indoor ski center for a pseudo-ski that will burn off plenty of calories.

3. Adopt a walking mantra. Walking at a moderate pace can increase your heart rate and give you a brief mini-workout without the fuss. You just need to sustain a moderate speed for 15-20 minutes to make the most of this fitness routine. Squeeze in a walking session between errands or make a point of walking more often than driving as you go about your busy day. Just strap on those walking shoes and hit the road!

Whether you decide to burn off mega-calories on the ski slopes or stretch away stress and tension with yoga, keep up with your fitness resolutions this season and ward off those pesky holiday pounds. Your fitness routine might also allow for a second helping of pumpkin pie without the guilt!

You've been looking for athletic inspiration after Olympic fever has blown on through, but how do you reach that Greek god (or goddess) level of fitness? Training for a marathon is one way to get started, a chance to put your athletic abilities to the test and show off that superior muscle strength, if you must. Running a race could be a much-needed break from the usual fitness rut, and you can get into a training routine within a few weeks with the right gear.

Your first step in the right direction will be to track down the right running gear. Start with the soles, because you'll need plenty of support as you tackle the running trail and work on building up strength in the lower legs. The Mizuno Wave Creation 9 is one running shoe that's built to last and support you through that challenging track. It's made with extra cushioning and gel support in the heel; plus, it has its own inner cooling system to keep those feet in great shape no matter how hard the course may be.

Next up: some protective eyewear. Sporting a pair of Oakleys down the track is a surefire way to attract some attention and keep those peepers safe from the sun. Polarized Oakleys like the Half Jacket Array can be used on even the less-than-sunny days, and these stylish lenses suit almost any face shape.

The layers have it when it comes to running in the great outdoors, so you'll need to wear the most versatile outfit to get you through that race with ease. When you're hoping to clock in at superhero time at the finish line, aim for a lighter-the-better approach for the clothing lineup. Hoodies, half-zip base layer shirts and comfy, moisture-wicking pants are your best bets for finishing that race in record time. If the day calls for a super-hot climate, consider wearing a tankini-style top or vest instead.

Marathon season is underway as nonprofits and charity organizations set up races all across the country in hopes of raising funds. You don't have many excuses to stay in and sit on the couch this season, unless you're training with a Wii Fit.

Has your get-up-and-go mindset for getting in shape disappeared into the abyss since your last training session? Staying motivated to stick with your workout routine is one of the biggest challenges of getting in shape, and sometimes even the most enthusiastic personal trainer or workout buddy can't help.

Maintaining that energy and enthusiasm takes work - a trip to Starbucks doesn't count - but there are some easy ways to make those trips to the gym a tad more exciting so you can turn yourself into the Prince (or Princess) of Persistence. You can start with:

1. Tackling a new activity. Getting stuck in a rut is one of the easiest ways to lose motivation and trade that much-needed gym time for a trip to the dessert café next door. Take on a new challenge with Olympian spirit and up the self-motivation factor instantly.

2. Calling a friend. Buddy up with someone who could use a great workout this week and make it a gym date. Having someone hold you accountable for the workout can make it easier to stick with it for the long haul; think of it as training wheels until you're ready to blast through those workouts alone.

3. Logging your time. Keeping track of time spent at the gym can be a great way to measure your progress and your success. Charting your time on a calendar or PDA will give you some numbers to work with and a visual incentive to keep making that number grow! Clock your time using a sports watch or other monitoring device so you can fine tune that progress chart and be proud of every step.

4. Train for another reward. If becoming more fit and looking great aren't enough of a motivation factor, consider rewarding yourself with other goodies like that mini vacation you've always wanted to take, a shopping spree to pick up the latest handbag, or even a simple reward of having a day off work can be a better payoff in the short-term.

5. Take it to the office. If your usual gym routine takes place after work, put up some motivational quotes and posters around the office or design a fun screensaver. This can help you get into the mindset of sticking with your plans at all costs and keep you focused and positive throughout the day.