Fitness Tip: Exhale forcefully at the top of the movement when you do abdominal crunches. It forces your muscles to work harder.

Fitness Tip: Take a week off. You can actually gain more strength and muscle by periodically and strategically dialing down your strength training routine.

Fitness Tip: Bed-rest is not the best prescription for sore muscles. You’ll actually reduce pain with a little activity.

Fitness Tip: The push-up is one of the world’s greatest exercises. Maintain a rigid body line from the top of your head to your heels throughout the push.

Fitness Tip: If your hands and forearms give out before your back and legs, alternate your grip. It will ease the pressure on your hands, wrists and arms.