Kathy Kaehler, a personal trainer to the stars, and Leanza working out in Kaehler's home gym

To Your Health
Vowing to get healthy is a great first step. But once you've made that decision, getting in shape requires homework. With the help of Nanette Pattee Francini and Michelle Basta Boubion, both fitness experts, Leanza gives pointers on finding a suitable health club. If you'd rather sweat in the comfort of your own home, she also researches how to purchase the right home gym. And what about those delicious health drinks. Do they really "boost" your health as their proponents claim—or just your caloric intake? Gail Frank of the American Dietetic Association has the answers.

Health Clubs

• Choose a club that is conveniently located, close to your home or office.

• Make sure the club is clean and well maintained.

• Ask for a guest pass so you can "try before you buy."

• Try to negotiate lower membership fees—it couldn't hurt.

Resources

The Sports Club Co.
Founder, Nanette Pattee Francini
www.thesportsclubla.com

Muscle & Fitness/HERS
Michelle Basta Boubion, Exercise Editor
www.muscleandfitness.com

The Home Gym

• Choose something you'll actually use.

• Look for good ergonomics.

• Look for ease of use and adjustability.

• Consider portability.

Resources

Consumer Reports
Harv Ebel, Project Leader
www.consumerreports.org

Health Drinks

• Pick a health drink that may substitute for the nutrients from foods you typically skip—like berries, milk or soy.

• Watch the portions—extra in the can means many extra calories.

• Examine all the ingredients for anything you may be allergic to?

• Feel good about drinking health drinks. They're a convenient, friendly and refreshing way to have good nutrition—as long as you pick healthy ingredients.

Resources

American Dietetic Association
Gail Frank, Spokesperson
www.eatright.org