Fitzness.com

Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Fitz. I need to buy some new shoes for the gym, but I don't know which brand to choose. Which do you like, and which are overall best? Rachel

A. Hello Miss Rachel. I'm happy to hear from you! This is one of the most common questions I'm asked, so I'm happy to answer it for everyone.

Using proper training equipment, especially footwear, is one of the most valuable steps you can take towards the prevention of injuries and promotion of a fabulous training experience.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hello, Miss Fitz! I think my best shot at getting fit would be to train at home. What size weights should I buy? I'm a 32-year-old woman, and I'm about 20 pounds overweight. Thanks! Alyssa

A. Thanks for writing, Alyssa. I'm glad you're getting serious about becoming more fit, and training at home is a really great place to start! Honestly, since I'm not standing next to you assessing your fitness level, it's almost impossible for me to tell you exactly what weights you should be using. However, I can provide you with a range, and I'm fairly confident they'll meet your needs.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Fitz. I'm a tall, mostly trim guy, but I have a bit of a gut. My sister's always nagging me about it, but since I'm trim, I tend to ignore her. She says it's worse to have fat on the gut than fat in the butt, but I say fat is fat. What's your spin? Adam

A. Wow, Adam! What a saucy way to deliver a question. I'll do my best to respond accordingly. Here goes: Big bums can be sexy. Big bellies can be lethal. My little scenario didn't rhyme as well as yours, but you get the gist, right? Your sister is correct, pal, and you'd serve yourself well to force that waistline of yours to jump in line with the rest of your trim body.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Fitz, I'm begging for your help. I'm not in very good shape, my skin is pasty white and I am sick to death about having to get into a swimsuit this summer. I know someone might say that I don't really have to, but I do! My social circle spends at least half of the summer at the lake or at the pool. Can you fix me? Melissa

A. Yeesh, Melissa! You really sound stressed. I can help you, but first I want you to take a huge deep breath. In fact, I think I want you to take about 10. You are going to be OK. Swimsuit season is definitely the cause of some major anxiety, but by the time I've said goodbye here, you'll hopefully be ready to relax and enjoy some fun in the sun.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Fitz. I'm getting married in late June, and I still have about 10 more pounds to lose. I feel good, but not great! You always say to avoid diets, so what can I do? Can't wait to hear it. Emily

A. You've been paying good attention, Emily, and I'm honored to be able to help you look and feel your best on one of the most special days of your life. I normally poo-poo attempts at quick weight loss -- reunions, holiday parties and cruises just don't qualify for "diet-like" behavior for me. Weddings are different though, and fortunately, I can help you lose the weight without hunger, stress or frustration before you walk down the aisle.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Miss Fitz, I've been trying to lose about 25 pounds for a very long time and wanted to run something past you. I'm of the opinion that vegetarians are pretty trim. Should I go that route to lose weight? Nathan

A. Hi Nathan. Interesting question. I'm feeling both the urge to say yes and no, so I'll talk about the subject and let you choose. Vegetarianism has great benefits, and one of them can be weight loss -- if you do it right. There can be drawbacks as well, so hopefully I can help you make a decision that's right for you.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Fitz. My office has a really nice fitness facility, but I feel a bit awkward using it. It's free and very convenient, I'm just a bit nervous about getting in there. I'm not very fit and it embarrasses me. Donna

A. I feel for you Donna. Office dynamics can be kind of weird, but your lack of gym savvy should not prevent you from enjoying what we both agree is one awesome benefit of your job. You said it yourself: You have full access to a nice gym that's both free and convenient. Who could ask for more? I'm confident my suggestions will put you at ease and get you moving quickly.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our That's Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Fitz. Quick question: I'm 37 and trying to get in better shape. I've already started eating better and exercising, but I don't know exactly how much I should do. I'm busy, but I can make a decent amount happen based on your recommendations. Thanks for the help, Angel

A. Hi Angel. Great question. I was just talking about this today at a speaking engagement, so I'll tell you what I told that large group I held captive. I believe when you hear my answer you'll be shocked at how little you're actually being asked to do.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our Thats Fit fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Fitz. My husband and I are ready to purchase a cardio machine for our home, but can't decide which to buy. He wants to get an elliptical machine, but I want a stepper so I can burn more calories. Which machine should we get to help us lose weight the fastest? Angie

A. Hello, Miss Angie. What an exciting purchase to make! I'm thrilled that you two are investing in your health, which is vital for ensuring a long and happy life together. Cardiovascular training is beneficial for your heart, lungs and weight-loss efforts. I'm happy to help you choose the machine that is right for you.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Fitz, I was wondering if you could give advice on how to train yourself for a move or pose that is too advanced for you. I understand how to work up to a particular weight or speed in weight-lifting or cardio, but I'm at a loss about things that seem 'all-or-nothing.' I'm thinking of things in fitness DVDs where they frequently have models for easy/moderate/advanced movements. Sometimes I can do the easier move without feeling challenged, but I can't do the harder one at all. I often don't see how continuing to do the easier one gets me closer to doing the more advanced one. I especially struggle with a variety of moves in yoga and pilates. Thanks! Your articles and videos are my favorite thing about That's Fit. Cecily

A. Hi, Cecily. Thanks so much for both the sweet feedback and the great question. I'm sure many people wonder the same thing. The first thing I want to tell you is that you should be struggling when you work out. Struggling means you are challenging your body and pushing it to be better. Wobbling, tightness and frustration are part of the deal when participating in yoga and pilates, for sure. This neverending journey to become more fit will hopefully always include great challenges, but I do have the secret to becoming more proficient in advanced skills.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answer. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose two per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Hi Fitz. My wife and I had been doing a fantastic job of getting into shape, but then I sprained my foot and she got pregnant. Our daughter is nine months old now, and it's still really hard for us to find time to go the gym in the evenings. I've got a gut but and my wife thinks I'm smokin', so I'm not really concerned about weight loss. I do worry about my cardiovascular fitness, though. It's not unusual for my heart rate to top 100 BPM while I'm just sitting working at my desk, and that's pretty much all I do all day.

Because of my sprained foot (it's healed, but prone to re-injury), the treadmill is not recommended but the rowing machine is fine. I've recently started going to the gym on my lunch hour a couple of times a week, but I only end up getting about 20 minutes actually working out. If I plan well, I could probably stretch that to 30 minutes. What should I be doing to get maximum bang for my buck in terms of cardiovascular fitness? I want to have the endurance to keep up with my daughter as she grows up, and I want to be around a long time after that as well. Mike

A. Thanks for the super question, Mike! I broke my foot and tore soft tissues in a very bad way a couple of years ago, so I can completely identify with your situation. (Photo of me with my sexy cast on right.) I got stuck on a kayaking machine for months, which was mental torture for me, but like you, I was dedicated to my cardiovascular health. Since you've told me your foot has healed and if you've been given a doctor's release to exercise, I have some great ideas for you!

Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. Fitz - I've seen you offer advice for women with "love handles" before, but do you have any for a man? My whole midsection is flabby and I'd like to reign it in. Thanks, Lars

A. Hi Lars, Thanks for your question. You're right, I have answered this question before (to see that feature, click here for "Love Handles and Man Boobs." Love Handles, Man Handles, Damn Handles ... call them what you want, but my answer will always be the same. Those pockets of fat sitting above your hips are just that. Pockets of fat! All the silly side bends in the world won't make them go away unless you do one thing.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. When I go walking with my friends, I notice that I often sweat and it shows through the back of my shirt and armpits. I know sweating is good, but not when I'm the only one who looks like that while walking with other ladies. It is really embarrassing. What can I do? Lorraine

A. My dear Lorraine, I understand where your stress is coming from. Sweat is rarely considered womanly, pretty or delightful. The thought process on sweat makes regular folks think it's gross. Allow me to share my thoughts and experiences on the subject.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions here in the Comments section below and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. I have a question for you. A while back you answered a question from a man who had been slacking off and needed to shape up fast for a beach trip. I printed out your advice, and started doing it (lots of push-ups, pull-ups, lunges, squats and cardio). But then I wondered if you would give different advice to a woman. So, what's a fast shape-up program for a relatively thin and healthy woman? And especially one that can be done at home with a minimum of equipment. Thanks! Judy

A. Thanks for the great question, Judy. I'm so happy to hear that you've printed out my advice and have been using it. Makes me feel worthy! I don't, however, have a more "female" workout for you. Look, everyone is different and often a woman's needs are different than a man's. But usually, they're only different when dealing with pregnancy, postpartum or menopause-type issues.

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Have fitness questions? Fitz has your answers. Our ThatsFit.com fitness expert -- and now your own virtual personal trainer -- will help you get fit, increase your overall health and do it in a fun way. Drop your questions in the comments section below, and we'll choose one per week to publish on That's Fit! Learn more about Fitz here.

Q. I take a serious interval class on Friday mornings and get along well with the instructor. I have taken the class for over a year and actually exchange e-mails with her on various topics, fitness and otherwise; she's cool, competitive, and likes challenges. I admit, I'd like to ask her to arm wrestle (she's cute and wicked fit), but am somewhat afraid to do so. I'm happily married and so is she, so I don't want to come across as asking something inappropriate. Any advice on how I should handle it? Mark

A. Hi, Mark. Thanks for the question. Look, normally I wouldn't consider it an odd request to ask an instructor you're friendly with for a simple physical challenge. But the fact that you've mentioned she's hot and that you're married leaves me to believe your intentions aren't completely innocent.

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