DAWN'S RAYS ARE creeping west across the Mojave, crawling up Joshua trees and barrel cacti, as a group of U.S.

Julie Wong is 70 years old and she lifts weights three times a week.

Maybe youve decided to get in better shape to improve your overall health, gain more energy, or in preparation for a competition or special event.

A normal contest prep for a male bodybuilder is usually in the 10-12 week range but if you stay lean year-round (something I recommend) you can probably get away with half that. It doesnt need to be all that complicated.

Were in what the New York Times recently called The Anti-Dieting Age. Working out and dieting arent cutting it anymore, some say.

MEDIA DRUM WORLD Frances Carpenter was raised by her doting single mum who spoilt her with food. The 28-year-old indulged on greasy takeaways, crisps and sweets until she hit 23st 9lbs and ballooned to a dress size 26.

Its a muggy, sunny day here on Long Island, and in a couple of hours, I begin a full afternoon into the evening of clients. I love helping people change their lives by incorporating exercise into their daily lives, and by making simple nutritional tweaks. Because of all the information out there (most of it being bull!), its very easy to get overwhelmed and confused while seeking to improve your health and your weight! Today, I want to dive deep a little bit about conventional thinking on diet and exercise.

Whether youve decided to get in better shape as part of a New Years resolution, for summer bathing suit season or you just want to boost your normal routine, theres never a bad time to get fit and shed those last extra pounds. And odds are you want to lose weight fast. But if youve ever tried losing weight, getting in shape, or simply leading a healthier lifestyle, you know that its not as easy as just changing your diet and squeezing in more workouts

When it comes to losing weight, there isnt a person out there that doesnt want to see results as soon as possible. So naturally, it is tempting to be drawn toward quick and easy methods whether it be a diet pill or a medical procedure that claim to slim you down in a hurry.

In support of myNKYs vision to promote a culture of good health in Northern Kentucky, LiveWell Newport and the YMCA have partnered with local fitness organizations to provide free exercise classes twice weekly until September 16. Classes will be held on Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. and Saturdays from 10-11 a.m.