Q: Joe, I think I exercise too much. For example, I run/ walk 6-8 miles Monday through Thursday. Sometimes, I cut my miles down to four and go to a step aerobics class that includes 30 minutes of step and 30 minutes of light weight lifting. I would really like to decrease my exercise time and do more effective exercises that will shape and tone my body. I spend 2 to 2.5 hours exercising but I have not been able to reshaping my body. Please help!

A: I notice you didn't mention anything about nutrition. Just as important as exercise is the quantity, frequency and quality of the food you eat.  Is it enough to support all of your activity? If you're like most "type-A" fitness buffs I've helped, you enjoy all the activity, but fall short in providing the raw materials needed to support the recovery process.

Unless you're training for the Olympics (better hurry, they start in a few more days!), you really don't need to train for 2+ hrs a day. (but it sounds like you already figured that one out).

Good Luck!

- Joe Stankowski

Aug 9, 2004