I know the phrase starts out with early to bed and early to rise and for years the only part of me resembling that phrase was the early to rise part. But, I guess, as you get older you can get wiser. That’s what I am going with anyway. It has taken me a few years to get wiser about being healthy. And I am still getting to where I want to be. I will be rebuilt like the Six Million Dollar Man. It may take a few more years but I am on the right path.

My son and I were talking and that’s the reason for this blog today. He has recently started running and a morning exercise routine. He is doing good and has some buddies doing it too. All that is great. He was just hoping to see results, like a little weight loss.

I am not a health or exercise guru of any sort. So any questions ask your doctor. But I am a guy who has learned a thing or two throughout his life. And if it helps you or someone, then good. One thing I know without a doubt, if I can do it, so can you.

Most of us, including me, would like to lose a little more weight. Doesn’t matter how much. From one pound to 100 pounds the method is the same in my book. Now, one side note. Fad diets are just that. Fads. Here today and the diet may be gone tomorrow but not your weight. It seems to me, and this is the big secret, that all diets are constructed around two simple ideas. First, less intake. Just eat less. Pass up the pie after dinner. Make your portions smaller. Take excess sugar out of your diet. Whatever. Just simply eat less calories. And second, get moving more. Whether that means more steps or running a 5K every morning, just get moving more. Find what works for you in both cases and do it. No, it won’t be instant weight loss but it will happen and will be sustainable. That’s the big secret of weight loss!

Just a couple of notes about that formula. It assumes that you will move or burn off more calories than you put into you. Be sensible. Willpower is the other thing. Some may not have a strong will so get a buddy to help you. Someone to help you with what you consume every day or just a friend to go to the gym with you. Day one you are strong. Day two and day 3 takes determination. A lot easier to stay in bed under the warm covers than get up and go workout. Just make what you do a habit. Something you do without thinking about it.

I believe God can help you too. He wants you to be the best version of you possible. Ask Him for help and guidance. He will lead you to the right way for you. Trust Him. Spend time with Him. If you don’t now spend time with God or even know what to do, keep it simple. Start with 5 minutes a day. Just give Him 5 minutes. Talk to Him like you would someone you confide in now. Your dad, a close friend, a special teacher.

In all of this, there is one simple message. Just start!