This is where it all starts. Chris and Harry translate the latest physiology science into a meaningful and motivating foundation for your comeback. Lock yourself up for a weekend and read it straight through with a highlighter. You'll end up on Monday as a changed person, finally understanding WHY you need to exercise.

You have got to use a heart rate monitor. It's the only way to ensure you are getting the workout your body needs. So why not get one that flawlessly gives all your metrics, such as exact distances using GPS functionality? There are newer Garmin models, but this 305 is a proven and versatile workhorse. One workout with it and you won't want to do another without your new 'activity accountant.'

The best authoritative book on nutrition. Has a redesigned food pyramid that finally makes sense. Put a copy of the new pyramid on your fridge. Here's a good version to print (we don't drink alcohol at all so we just block that part out): http://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/files/Healthy-Eating-Pyramid-handout.pdf

As James Taylor sings, 'Can't get no life from a TV screen...' Cancel your cable or satellite TV, crank up a portable XM radio and GET OUT THERE! I have the Pioneer 'Inno,' but this is the newest model. Either way, they work outside for live XM radio or inside you can switch to your own play lists with the touch of one button. You'll also need a sports case/armband--I have a Belkin brand I like.

I'll also mention socks. Yes, get 2-3 pair of good running and training shoes, but socks matter too. I've been a big fan of the Thorlo brand for years now. I've tried all the cheaper stuff and keep coming back. I like the 'mini crew' length. I've got these grey ones as well as some of the same cut in white and black--seems to work for all situations and shoes.

Thorlo, white version

The 20-oz version is a great way to make a quick protein drink when you're on-the-go. Put protein mix inside in advance (I also add glutamine powder when preparing a post-workout drink). Whenever you're ready, just add liquid (water or lowfat milk, etc.) and shake--no clumps! When you get home, rinse, dry and repeat. Get two or three so you can rotate them or have a couple on hand for long days.

On longer activities chaffing can be an issue. 'Jogger's nipple' is especially common in men--VERY painful. Wear high-performance fabrics (not cotton) that wick sweat away. Apply BodyGlide on susceptible areas for activities that will last 1-2 hours. For 2 hours or longer you can also pre-apply 'spot' band-aids to your nipples or something more robust, such as NipGuards (www.nipguards.com)

First and foremost a healthy diet. But vitamins and supplements are an easy insurance policy. We just get the multi-pack vitamins at Costco. However, we've added something we take with them. Omega-3 oils do great things and this Coromega product is a tasty, high-absorption way to ensure you're getting plenty of this essential fatty acid that provides so many benefits.

Great cost-effective way to get ongoing ballpark readings of your body fat percentage.

If you're into biking, Garmin also has a speed and cadence sensor that mounts on your bike and sends information to your Forerunner 305. Provides real-time and historical cycle speed and cadence (pedaling strokes per minute).