The YOU Extended Warranty Plan: Before You Begin

What You’ll Need

These items will help you track your progress, so you can see your body getting younger. You may have some of them already, so check your cupboards and closets before you hit the shops. If you simply must go out and buy everything brand-spanking-new, it shouldn't run you more than about $125.

• Tape measure. The soft kind is best, as you'll be wrapping it around your waist. Check the sewing box.
• Heart-rate monitor. We like Polar and Omron products; they have chest straps and monitor watches.
• Pedometer. Men typically prefer the type that fits onto a belt or waistband; women usually opt for a thinner model, which fits on a bra strap. Our patients get much longer life from the belt variety and in our experience, it seems more accurate.
• Blood pressure monitor. Go for one that has an arm cuff. They're easy to use, and most have memory and computer download capabilities. Snazzy. Find out more about choosing a monitor that's right for you. You could use the blood pressure machine at your local drugstore instead, but public machines tend not to be accurate, so your reading might be off.
• Good pair of walking or running shoes. Specialty running-shoe stores can help you find a good fit for your foot. But if you're happy with the sneakers you have, there's no need to buy new ones.
• Notebook. Record your self-test answers and track your progress.