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By Lisa McCormack

Couples receive more attention on their wedding day than any other day of their life.

All eyes are on the glowing bride as she makes her way down the aisle. Then, they turn to the groom as he stands beaming, ready to greet her.

The excitement could be tinged with a bit of apprehension if the happy couple is out of shape. After all, no bride wants to worry about whether her strapless dress is highlighting her flabby triceps, and most grooms want to look strong and fit, not doughy.

The key to getting fit is to start exercising months before the wedding. That way, you'll have plenty of time to take off pounds safely and shape your muscles the healthy way.

Plus, you won't have to worry about any last-minute gown or tuxedo alterations to accommodate your newly svelte form.

Charlotte Brynn, executive director of the Swimming Hole in Stowe and a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor, offers the following tips:

1. Getting started is often the hardest part of a fitness program, so don't delay. Ideally, a lead time of eight weeks or longer will give you time make a lifestyle change, lower body fat, build lean muscle and improve cardiovascular fitness.

2. If you're new to exercise, check in with your physician before you get started. Start with a goal of three days a week of cardiovascular exercise for five- to 10-minute intervals. You should also perform strength-training exercises twice a week. If you're already active, aim for 60-minute cardiovascular training sessions five days a week and strength training three days a week.

3. Couples can work out together. You'll be less likely to skip a workout if you know your partner is waiting to meet you. Take turns planning your workouts - cardiovascular, strength or flexibility - and setting dates and times. Write your workout schedule down. Once it's in writing, you're committed.

4. Don't be afraid to ask for help when planning a fitness routine. A fitness professional can tailor a program to help you reach results that you might not achieve on your own. Semiprivate personal training sessions are increasing popular, because they're efficient and offer the motivation of teamwork.

5. Set fitness goals as a couple. Sign up for a fun run or enter a 5-kilometer race - that's only 3.1 miles. Rent, borrow or buy bicycles and commit to riding a certain amount of miles together each week. Do a cardiovascular workout together, with high- and low-intensity intervals.

6. Any fitness routine should include changes in your diet. Start a food log and record what you eat, including serving size and time of day. That promotes mindful eating. Consulting a registered dietitian is a safe, effective way to make changes and improvements. Take your food log to the appointment, and be sure to note times of the day you may feel low energy or high stress.

7. Don't halt your fitness program when your wedding day arrives. Continuing to exercise once you are married will increase the likelihood of a long and healthy life together. Exercise reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer and other serious health problems. It also improves balance, joint stability and bone density, and promotes a feeling of well-being.

Regular exercise offers couples benefits beyond physical fitness. Planning a wedding can be stressful, and that takes a physical and mental toll. Exercise helps combat stress.

You might also try a yoga class to improve your flexibility and posture and to combat any wedding stress blues.