It's one of the easiest, budget-friendly fitness strategies on the planet, yet only some of us get into the habit of keeping up with a running routine to stay in shape. Running and speed walking are easy ways to get that heart pumping and burn off calories; the cardio machines at the gym are no match against a powerful running routine that includes a few lunges, squats and a solid stretching sequence.

If you're determined to jump into a fitness regimen this season, training yourself on a track or treadmill could be the key to fitness success. Here are some essential training tips to stay motivated and get in shape fast:

1. Pick out the right shoes. The right shoes will protect your feet and ankles and support your running ventures on any type of trail; if you're unsure about a certain style or design, get a professional fitting to determine your best size. Shoes that are too big or small will take their toll on your performance, so make sure the shoe truly fits so you can step up to the challenge like a pro.

2. Pack your running gear the night before. If you're committed to getting in shape, don't give yourself a chance to skip your routine in the wee morning hours. Pack your gear or set out your clothes for the morning as a motivation strategy. This move also ensures you have very few choices to make during your most vulnerable hour.

3. Eat like a champion (in the making). Stocking up on healthy snacks and eating at regular intervals throughout the day will put your energy level in high gear. You'll need to adopt this eating strategy for your new fitness undertaking, so make a plan that you can stick with for the long term. Fresh fruit, whole grains, lean protein and plenty of water are essential for your long-term success. Power up your days with the right foods and you'll find it easier to stick with a consistent running schedule.

Training your body and mind for a healthier lifestyle can be challenging, but preparation is key to your success. Get started on a running routine that will help you reach your fitness goals this year and beyond.

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.