Recently Engaged? 5 Steps to Get in Shape for the Big Day

As a newly engaged woman, I understand the stress regarding wedding planning. You have to pick out a date, venue, dress, flowers, decor, the list seems endless. One thing that women tend to stress about from the very minute of becoming engaged is their fitness. What will I look like on my wedding day? Will my skin be top-notch? Will I be able to gain enough muscle for my liking? Brides across the country are thinking the same thing, so you are definitely not alone. There are programs out there that cost hundreds of dollars to get the best wedding/honeymoon body that you have ever dreamed of. For those of us who do not have an unlimited budget, spending that type of money on a personal trainer is simply not possible.

Here are some pieces of advice to kick start the body you've always dreamed of for your special day.

1. First, decide what time of day works best for you. Are you a morning person? Do you typically have more time after work? Does your job give you the flexibility to work out during your lunch hour? Pick a time of day that you can put into your daily routine, and try your best to stick with it. Working out should become a part of your daily life.

2. Are you looking to lose weight? Depending on your target goal, the workouts you do may differ. If you're looking to lose weight, focusing on cardio is your best bet. But keep things new and fresh. If you're not a runner, don't run. If you hate the elliptical, don't get on that machine. Do whatever makes you the happiest, but also step out of your comfort zone every once in a while and try something new. There are many forms of cardio that burn a lot of calories. Try taking a dance class, a tennis lesson or even a Zumba class at your gym! These are some fun ways to work out without stepping on a treadmill.

3. Are you looking to tone up? If you're looking to tone up, look online for free workouts. One of my favorites is the Jamie Eason's Live Fit Trainer that is free on BodyBuilding.com. The plan is three months long and works on building muscle and toning your overall body. You'll be ready for that wedding dress in no time.

4. Focus on health from the inside out. What do I mean by this? Focus on what you're putting into your body as much as you focus on your workouts. You may be working out every single day, but not seeing any results because of the types of food you're eating. Do you think you'll be able to get a rockin' body by eating junk food and working out? I don't think so. Eat plenty of green vegetables, fresh fruits, and hearty grains and protein to keep you full longer. Crash dieting isn't going to work in the long run. Focus on making a lifestyle change.

5. Keep a workout log. You can do this either online or with pen and paper. Keep a journal to document your fitness journal, your measurements, and workouts. This is a great tool to use to look back on your journey and figure out what is working and what isn't.

No matter what, remember that this time in your life should be a time of joy and love. Don't stress too much about the wedding, but instead make changes in your workout routine that you can continue months after your wedding.

Nicole Kennedy is a healthy living blogger and public relations specialist living in the suburbs of Philadelphia. Nicole's blog, Simply Nicole, documents her daily life occurrences as she balances working full-time, blogging, training for races, practicing yoga, eating healthy and spending time with her boyfriend. You can connect with Nicole via Facebook and Twitter for real-time blog updates, tips and tricks to living a healthy lifestyle, and more!

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