GETTING IN SHAPE

You put a lot of time and care into choosing the wedding gown of your dreams, so you owe it to yourself to fit into it properly. Whether that means minimal firming or more overall weight loss, remember that any workout's effects will only last as long as your motivation to stay the course and keep fit. Viewing your pre-wedding routines as a life process can help you, and your new family, to fuller, healthier lifestyles.

Despite the claims of fad diets, tonics, powders, and pills, there is only one healthy way to achieve your wedding day weight: A combination of diet and exercise that promotes gradual weight loss. If you've had any experience watching your weight, you probably know the basics: Cut down on sweets, bulk up on fruits and veggies, choose lean meats, avoid fried and fatty foods, and be sure to drink at least eight glasses of water a day.

You know that exercise plays a key role in weight loss, but did you know that if you don't exercise when you diet, you might end up losing mostly lean tissue? That's precisely the svelte, sculpted muscle you want to keep. On the other hand, just because you work out five days a week doesn't mean you can eat whatever you want and still lose weight. If you're really serious about getting in shape for your wedding day, you need to strike a balance between healthy eating and exercise.

While many people feel they get the best results if they exercise first thing in the morning, if you're not a morning person chances are you won't. Instead of trying to force yourself into a routine that isn't your style, choose the time that works best for you. You'll get more from your workouts and you'll be more likely to stick with it.

Want to tone up for the big day and don’t mind spending a little cash for big rewards? Hire a trainer: He or she can show you how to position your body to make sure you're exercising correctly. If you already belong to a gym, ask a trainer on duty to check out your form. Don't belong to a gym? Check ads for those offering free day passes, and seek help from there.

Make the most of your time at the gym. Any kind of cardio activity, ideally one that incorporates the upper and lower body at the same time, is great. For example, find a vertical climbing machine (like a StairMaster) with a feature that incorporates the upper body too.

In addition, schedule your slimming to be at your ideal goal by the time you buy your dress -- not your wedding day. Losing significant weight after purchasing your gown will cost you more in alterations later overestimating how slim you'll be means you may wind up with a gown that's too small.

Finally, whatever you do, don't starve yourself a month before the wedding. It can be a tempting way to shed those last few pounds. And, like many brides have found, it may be easy if you've lost your appetite due to pre-wedding jitters. However, a healthy diet and regular exercise is the most reliable way to get (and stay) in shape