It’s that time of year when the sun shines longer, nature beckons us, and we say to ourselves, "I have to get ready for shorts and swimsuit season!"

Have you been telling yourself this is the week you’ll start exercising? Do you sometimes skip a workout because you’re too tired in the morning or afternoon? Do you ever feel drained halfway through your walk, run, or exercise class because you’ve run out of energy? If your exercise program could use a boost, or you’re planning to start working out again, you need to know how to fuel yourself for fitness! Throughout May, I'll be posting my favorite tips about what to eat before and after your workout to help you sustain energy, lose weight, fuel your muscles, and maximize the benefits of your workout.

For now, if you need a little more motivation to get moving, consider joining a regularly-scheduled exercise class, hiring a personal trainer, or enlisting a workout buddy. The goal is to get involved with others who will miss you and who will give you a reason to get your shoes and spandex on. Studies (including my own research) show that exercising with a partner not only motivates you, but over time, can increase your workout time and/or performance by 50 percent. Now that’s what friends (and trainers) are for!