Better Swimming

In the August issue of Chatelaine, Anne O’Hagan says that for some people slipping into a bathing suit feels like diving into the deep end of anxiety. If you can relate, by all means let Land's End help you find swimwear that slims and builds your confidence, but be sure to focus on your other form. The Toronto Star launched an online guide to better swimming, which offers a slideshow with techniques to improve body position, front crawl, kicking, gliding, breathing and treading water.

Get Your Energy Back

Ever have days when you can’t muster up enthusiasm to exercise? Something’s off. You don’t feel like you’re in a workout slump, but even the mental tricks in your playbook aren’t working. Here are three tips to reap health benefits and maintain progress until you’re back to your awesome self: (1) Get out of bed (2) Arrive at gym (3) Do a warm-up. Even if the pounding Latin beats of your spinning session didn't leave you breathless, or your bodypump class didn’t revive your inner super babe (at least this time), going through the motions of your routine will shake up your mood -- and that's the best trick to regain your energy to be your best. You’ll feel proud of yourself that you did.

Wired Workout

NextFit Key Chain Trainer is a new portable, audio-based fitness system. After completing your profile online, select from a menu of more than 2,000 workouts, goals and exercise equipment to develop a workout program with your goals matched to a qualified instructor. Programs are downloaded onto your NextFit Keychain Trainer that gives you access to more than 40 motivational instructions by popular experts. There’s no commitment or cancellation fee, but there's an initial set-up fee, which covers the cost of the system, eight hours of music, armband, lanyard, and headphones. Although it can never take place of a true personal training experience, it’s affordable. In addition, custom weight loss programs are included.

Effortless Meal

If three minutes is too long to wait for a meal, you’ll love this 30 second dish – my homage to the fromage of the ‘80s. Cottage cheese is rich in bone-building calcium, packed with protein and little fat. It’s your perfect no-cook meal for breakfast, lunch, mid-afternoon or a light dinner. With the season’s best picks such as peaches and pineapple, you can eat healthful foods fast. Spoon half a cup of 1% low-fat cottage cheese into a bowl; add up to one cup of sliced fruits; enjoy!