You can be healthy even if you aren't a professional athlete. You just need to balance the food you put in your body with the energy you expend playing sports, going to the gym, or doing the things you like to do to stay active. Yet, with your job, family, and a busy schedule, sometimes it's hard to find the time. Incorporating small changes into your eating and physical activity regiment can make a difference without the need for the dedication and commitment of an athlete training for the Beijing 2008 games.

Here are some ways to stay active without having to be an Olympian:

· Take small trips on foot to get your body moving.

· Choose activities you enjoy and you'll be more likely to stick with them.

· Stretch before bed to give you more energy when you awake.

· Buy a set of hand weights and play a round of Simon Says with your kids-you do it with the weights, they do without.

· You can break up your physical activity into 10-15 minute sessions throughout the day—it's the daily total that matters. Aim for at least 30 minutes for adults, 60 minutes for children.

· When walking, go up the hills instead of around them.

· Do sit-ups in front of the TV.

· Ask a friend to exercise with you.

· Exercise with a video if the weather is bad.

· Keep a pair of comfortable waking or running shoes in your car and office.

…and a few tips on portion control:

· When eating out, choose a small or medium portion.

· Ask for salad dressing "on the side."

· Eat before grocery shopping.

· Try fast food options such as smaller burgers, grilled chicken sandwiches or salads with low-calorie dressings, cups or bags of fresh fruit, low-fat milk. 100% fruit juice and bottled water.