Move It!

It's a scientific fact that getting active can reduce your risk of cancer. See, all this time you thought I was just bossing you around when I've actually been encouraging you to reduce your risk of cancer! The American Cancer Society recommends getting at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical exercise on five or more days a week (which you're already doing if you're following my plan) for maximum benefits.

And it's not hard to get motivated to peel that butt off the couch when you look at these numbers: At least a whopping 50 percent of cancer deaths in the United States could be prevented just by making small changes to lifestyle and health habits. That works out to about 280,000 lives saved a year. As someone who has watched three loved ones battle with cancer, I can tell you these are not figures to take lightly.

Whether you're starting a new fitness regimen this year, or just renewing your commitment to being fit and healthy, think about how much you're doing for yourself and your loved ones by taking good care of the body you're in. Now if that's not enough to push you through any exercise slump, I don't know what is.

JILLIAN'S TIP OF THE DAY
This Week's Challenge: Eat Better Breakfasts Today's breakfast suggestion is plain yogurt with fruit and almonds. Look for yogurt with live active cultures to help your gut health, and if you can, choose an organic brand. Don't pick the fruit-on-the-bottom flavors, since they often contain high fructose corn syrup. Mix in your own cut-up fruit, and add almonds to pack in some more protein. Go to: www.jillianmichaels.com for more great tips!

DANIELLE'S COMMENTS: It's all fun and games until you get your test results. Which would you prefer? Diabetes, Cancer or Heart Disease. The longer you refuse to take care of your body, the greater the risk that you will develop one of many preventable diseases. It's a shame that it takes hearing bad news from the Doctor for people to move (take action).