Struggling to stick to your shape-up plans? Consider working on your soundtrack, too.

Add new artists, rediscover old faves, and do whatever else you need to do to keep your workout music fresh and fun. Research proves that a good soundtrack takes the grind out of exercise.

A Near and Dear Distraction
Music does more than serve as a distraction. Studies show it actually gives you a better cardio workout by helping you go longer and stronger without noticing the extra effort. Listening to good tunes could also have you reaching for heavier dumbbells sooner. That's what researchers found when they put a group of adults on a 4-week strength-training program. Those who trained with tunes were pumping out significantly more reps by the end of the program, compared with those who hadn't gotten down. (Thank you, James Brown!) Watch this video for advice on another important piece of exercise equipment: your pedometer.

Workout Redesign
In addition to a killer playlist, here are some ways to make exercise easier:

• Try a little liquid courage. Here's why you might want to drink green tea before you hit the gym.
• Surf the Web . . . fight flab. Find out how online exercise groups may help make you healthier.
• Focus on the rewards -- like being younger! A simple walking program like this can turn the clock back 10 years.

Motivational music during resistance training improves strength endurance. Welch, J. M. et al.; American College of Sports Medicine 55th Annual Meeting, May 28, 2008, presentation no. 1608.