Fitness Guru Bob Greene Shares Weight-Loss Tips

The guy who got Oprah in shape says he can help you get fit, too.

Fitness guru Bob Green shares his seven secrets to losing weight.

When it comes to weight loss, Greene says most of us do it the wrong way: We start by going on a diet.

"That's all backwards because when you cut calories, you actually cut your metabolism right up front," Greene said. "You want to do it the other way around."

1. Greene says you've got to get active first. Start with stretching to keep your muscles limber and your body flexible.

2. Then, focus on what Greene calls "functional exercises" that strengthen key muscle groups like shoulders, legs and abdominal muscles that need to be strong to be healthy.

"If you get this functional, you're not going to have back problems," Greene said.

3. Once the core of your body is stronger, add in aerobic activity like walking or biking -- but make sure your breathing is fast paced.

4. After that, do some weight training, even if it's just using dumbbells at home.

"The aerobic exercise is like the kindling wood, it starts the fire in your metabolism," Greene said. "Weight training is like that big log that's going to carry you through, maintaining that muscle, burning calories -- and that's what you want."

5. Now for a couple of his success secrets: Stop eating two to three hours before bedtime.

6. Pay attention to your emotional appetite -- the reason why you're digging in the refrigerator for a late-night snack.

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