1. That copy of Stuff Magazine in your boyfriend's bathroom showing Winnie Cooper in her underwear.

So your man enjoys gazing at scantily-clad women. Wouldn't you feel better about this if you knew for certain that you were one of them? Don't let Kevin Arnold's junior high school sweetheart steal your thunder. Drop those extra pounds and then reward yourself with a trip to Victoria's Secret. Be the star of his private show!

2. At least two more weeks of tank tops and mini skirts.

The weather may be changing, but you're not changing into your sweaters just yet. Yes, there's still time to show off those legs that go Blam and butt that goes Pow. Of course you want to be seen at the club wearing that cute mini you picked up for half-price at H&M. So hop on that elliptical and get yourself into that skirt!

3. Your preference for being on top.

Sex is better when we're limber and strong enough to support those more "daring" positions as well as keep the momentum going. If for nothing else, improve your stamina for the added joy it brings in the bedroom! When you're old and feeble, you can look back on those virile years with a smile.

4. The slim but not impossible chance that you could get caught under a large piece of furniture.

No, not everyone embraces the "survivor" mindset, but the truth is, the American lifestyle makes us weak, lazy and incapable. You never know when you may need those muscles to pull yourself from a perilous situation... or heck, even lift up that heavy box instead of waiting for a burly man to come along!

5. Not being mistaken for your mom from behind.

Sure, Mom is roly-poly and cute, but you're in the ballpark of 20 years younger than she is, and your body condition should reflect that difference. It's one thing to have your mother's eyes... but another to have her thighs. Get thee to a gym and start retaining that youthful physique!

6. PMS and Tylenol PM.

Regular exercise can improve your overall mood, energy levels, and keep you on a set sleep schedule. It's also a great way to curb that premenstrual aggression and detox the body. Next time Aunt Flow cramps your style, step into those sneaks and hit the pavement. You'll come back refreshed and invigorated thanks to the exercise endorphine rush.

7. Because you hate to skip the stuffing.

Thanksgiving will be here before you know it. Get a head-start on those pound-packing holidays by shedding some weight now and priming your bod for turbo metabolism. Face it, you're not skipping the stuffing OR the pumpkin pie... may as well indulge in the feast of thanks with no misgivings.

Copyright 2005 Dina Giolitto. All rights reserved.