We've got a fitness challenge for you - the stairs. Be sure to eat for energy as this will be your toughest workout thus far

I’m a big fan of exercising outside, because research shows that people go harder, for longer and enjoy it more when they exercise outdoors compared to in. It is July, after all, so hopefully it’s nice out. (Sunscreen!)

<p>The Editorial Team of Chatelaine magazine.</p>

Fitness

Health

Today marks the beginning of your weight loss and exercise plan. Join us for an intro to your new fitness and eating regimen

Healthy Recipes

Today features a yummy apricot smoothie for breakfast and kinesthetic tests to assess your balance

Diet

On Day 3 we challenge you to test your core strength and show you how to boost your iron intake with a fresh recipe!

weight loss

We hope you went out and bought your exercise ball. James puts it, and you, to work with this core-strengthening activity

Today you’re going to use your exercise ball to help further improve your core. I want you to practice sitting on it. You can do this while at the computer, watching TV, eating or playing cards. Once you’ve mastered your balance try rolling back and forth and side to side on it instead of just sitting. Keep a slight inward curve to your low back during this process and sit up straight.

shape up plan

Fitness on the stairs and a shrimp recipe (Day 4)

How to be healthy: Walking and a smoothie recipe (Day 1)

Find balance and a healthy tuna recipe (Day 2)

Exercises to strenghten your core (Day 3)

Exercise ball workouts and a chocolate smoothie (Day 5)