Lifestyle activities can provide health benefits similar to a traditional gym-based workout. Get moving by parking in the farthest space, climbing the stairs instead of taking the elevator, or walking or stretching while you're on the phone.

• The goal for good health is to accumulate 10,000 steps a day, experts say. To help keep track, some people use an electronic pedometer — a palm-sized gadget that clips to your waistband and measures the number of steps you take.
• Balance on one foot while brushing your teeth. Balance on the other foot while combing your hair.
• Take your dog for a walk every day. If you don't have a dog, borrow your neighbor's, or just walk your "inner dog."

Step 6: Remember the basics of good nutrition.

There are three "rules" for healthy eating. They're easy to remember and easy to follow.

• Expand the variety of foods in your diet.
• Add more fruits, vegetables and whole grains to the foods you already eat.
• Select more lower-fat food choices.

Step 7: Treat yourself.

Pick a day or two in the week and have a treat that is planned, such as a dessert or entrée that you especially enjoy. The extra 100-200 calories you've eaten will then be easily burned off with a 1-2 mile walk.

• Challenge yourself with a 5K run or walk.
• Treat yourself to a massage.
• Try meditating, yoga or an old-fashioned nap.
• Take care of yourself as often as you can.

Contributors include Ann Coulston, M.S., R.D.; Jane Folkman, M.S., R.D.; Rachel Johnson, R.D., M.Ph., Ph.D.; Richard Cotton and Carol Krucoff.

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