The Ultimate Bridal Workout

You’ve found the perfect man. If your wedding-day dreams also include being in top shape, use this workout plan by Jeanette Jenkins.

Photo by: Jorg Badura

Designed to be performed for six months, five days a week, with sessions lasting 30 minutes (for beginners) to just over an hour (for fitter women), each month of this workout builds on the progress you've made the month before.

Getting Ready
Visit your doctor. You need his or her OK before starting any diet or exercise plan.

Keep a journal. Start by writing down your workout goals, and make them as specific as you can—think "I want to lose five pounds and tone my shoulders."

Size yourself up. Measure your waist, hips, thighs and arms. Step on the scale to find your starting weight. Finally, calculate your body-fat percentage (or body mass index) at caloriecontrol.org. Record this info in your journal, then weigh and measure yourself every week after.

Pen it in. In your planner, block out time each day for exercise just as you would for an important meeting.

Get in tune. Load your MP3 player with songs that motivate you.

Equip yourself. You'll need cross-training shoes and a supportive sports bra. If your budget allows, consider a heart-rate monitor.

Next: 6 Months Before