By Maria Trice-Jones

Finding time to exercise can really be a test, girlfriends. I know all about it because I've been a fitness professional for the past 20-something years. It’s a test of your commitment, desire, and even your integrity.

Don't worry, all is not lost, the goal is to keep it simple. By definition a Just Between Girlfriends member is at the very least a multitasking woman, mother, wife, professional, dynamic girlfriend who is constantly in "Give Mode."  She is always giving to others in some special way.

My special gift to you is exercise and its importance. I’m here to empower you with fitness information, start you on a wellness program and help you maintain a realistic routine that will bring you success.

These gifts will enhance your quality of life and make all the wonderful things you do on a daily basis even better. The first thing you’ll need is a success soundtrack. Pick an affirmation that will help motivate and inspire you to Just Do It  three to four times a week, for at least 20 minute intervals.

Walking is a great way to stay lean and strong. You can walk outside or on a treadmill, in your office, to the bus stop or subway, up and down the stairs at home or work. Find time in your day to put your sneakers on and walk with intention for 20 minutes. This means getting your heart rate up and a little sweat on your forehead.

Put a happy face on your calendar every time you complete this exercise routine for the day and jot down comments on a pad. Write how you feel: this was easy, I’m tired, I hate walking, my legs hurt or I feel great.  At the end of the month count how many times you’ve exercised and write down any body changes you’ve observed.

Set mini goals and forget being perfect. Life is challenging enough without beating yourself up, girlfriends. If your goal is to lose a few pounds, it helps to eliminate or cut down on salt and sugar.

I could give you all kinds of food combining strategies for weight loss and maybe in the future I will, but for now, let’s keep it simple. Eliminating excessive amounts of sodium and sugar will do wonders for your body.

If you get a chance, keep a journal of all the times you selected healthy foods, instead of food laced with sugar and sodium. Also, write down how you felt about your choices. Every little change in your diet and exercise routine brings you one step closer to your goal. Before you know it, you will notice big changes in your health and energy levels.

After you’ve made some progress, refresh your routine. Then call your girlfriends and get them to join you for something exciting like a game of tennis, belly dancing or maybe even rock climbing. Keep track of your activities on a calendar and incorporate at least one new activity each month. Keeping it fresh can really spice up your life in more ways than you expect.

Always remember to reward yourself, it’s most important. For each mini goal you achieve, treat yourself to those new shoes you’ve been eyeing, an slice of your favorite cake or an extra romantic dinner with your number one supporter.