by Corey Ritter

I asked Corey Ritter, an Atlanta personal trainer, to provide his top five fitness tips for increased energy and reduced stress to share with my Daily Dose of Happiness readers. Here is what we shared with the readership...

Atlanta Personal Trainer Fitness Tip #1:

Eat lean protein every three hours! Proteins main function: Help build and maintain healthy muscle. Which in-turn will help increase your metabolic rate to assist in burning body fat. Good sources: Egg Whites, Chicken Breast, Sirloin Lean Steak, Lean Ground Turkey, Fresh Fish, Protein Shakes.

Atlanta Personal Trainer Fitness Tip #2:

Walk around the block. There are many benefits to be gained from walking. These can include more energy, deeper and more satisfying sleep, stronger leg muscles, lower body fat, higher metabolic rate, and reduce stress! Everyday for 20-30 minutes at a brisk walk. Preferably first thing in the morning!

Personal Trainer Fitness Tip #3:

Stretch, Stretch, Stretch. Anytime, but at least once a day one week before the wedding. Increases flexibility, reduces stress, improve coordination, increase circulation and it feels good, just to name a few benefits. Hold each stretch for a minimum of 10-30 seconds, repeat 2-3 times.

Atlanta Personal Trainer Fitness Tip #4:

Avoid simple carbs! Their rapid absorption increases the chances of sugar converting to fat! Stay away from foods like: Bagels, pies, cakes, potato chips, many ready-to-eat cereals, white pasta, white bread, juice drinks with added sugar, alcohol, candy, soda pop, and syrup!

Atlanta Personal Trainer Fitness Tip #5:

Drink plenty of fresh, clean water. Yes, I know that you have probably heard this one over and over again. But there's a reason for that - it's that important! It aids in fat loss, detoxifies the liver and kidneys, and carries away waste from the body. It is recommended for best results to consume 8 10-ounce glasses of water per day.