Recently, so family and friends tell me, I’ve become a bit of a health nut and I whole-heartedly agree.

Two years ago, I suffered a gallbladder attack, which required immediate removal after doctors concluded it was diseased.

This got me thinking about my health and the choices I was making. I decided then and there to make the changes necessary to feel and look better.

I bid farewell to fast food, junk food and soft drinks and began the Zumba fitness program on my Nintendo Wii gaming system.

It worked, I have lost almost 60 pounds, numerous inches and four pants sizes.

I feel and look better than I ever have.

Recently, a friend of mine, who is a personal trainer, started an accountability group on Facebook composed of women with common fitness goals.

It’s a great asset to have. We motivate each other every day as we complete fitness challenges.

Currently, we are training for a 10K.  There is a great application for Android phones and iPhones called 10K for Pink.

It’s a 14-week program designed to get beginners from couch potatoes to 10K distance runners. The program is a blend of walking and running.

It is oftentimes difficult in this day and age to balance family life with work, schedule workouts and plan and prepare healthy meals.

It seems easier to pull into that restaurant and grab something fast.

But for true change to take place, one must commit to a fitness and healthy eating schedule.

Try waking up earlier in the morning to get the workout out of the way first thing. Create workout habits and find physical activities that you love to do.

Instead of that bag of chips, grab a bag of vegetables and fruit.

Cook more meals at home.

Exercising is always more fun when you have someone cheering you on. Find a workout partner or find a motivational group to join and soon you’ll be on your way to a healthier you.

Before beginning any exercise or diet regime, consult with your doctor first.