Possible to get in shape without a gym

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Jan. 1 (UPI) -- It's possible to get in shape without joining a gym, a U.S. wellness coordinator advises.

Colleen Greene of the University of Michigan Health System in Ann Arbor insists it does not take a lot of time and money to keep that New Year's resolution to get fit.

She recommends:

-- Getting a fitness assessment from a personal trainer to help decide goals -- for example, flexibility or cardiovascular capacity -- and to help devise a fitness plan. Be sure to have the doctor approve the routine. Purchase equipment that fits the plan. Then schedule exercise just like a meeting or event.

-- Being creative. Cans of soup can substitute for dumbbells. The outdoors offers seasonal exercise such as snowshoeing or cross country skiing.

-- Maintaining a support system -- a friend to work out with or someone who will help you stay motivated.

-- Remembering the more varied and fun the exercise, the more likely it will be sustained.

-- Realizing weight loss won't happen overnight.