Alison Johnson

Kids aren't always forthcoming about pain, and symptoms can be subtle -- much subtler than limping, swelling or bleeding. To catch problems early, "parents should pay more attention to any changes, not just obvious signs of injury," says Dr. David Geier, an orthopedic surgeon and director of sports medicine at Medical University of South Carolina.

Whatever type of shoe you're buying, they can affect the health of your feet -- and far more.

"If your shoes aren't absorbing shock well, then your feet will, and then your knees, hips and back," says Dr. Jacqueline Sutera, a podiatric medicine and surgery specialist in New York City. Some tips:

Consider the activity. Running and walking shoes are designed for forward motion, while tennis, basketball and cross-training types are meant to move from side to side.

Finding an exercise partner to share your sweat can be a huge motivator. "You need somebody consistent -- somebody you can trust to be there," says Kerri Krasnow, a certified athletic trainer in Newport News, Va.

Her tips:

Look for someone on a similar exercise program. If you're both into weight training or riding stationary bikes, it shouldn't matter if you can't lift as many pounds or pedal as quickly as your partner. You can still spot and motivate each other.

You can get the same healthy proteins, carbohydrates and fats for less money.

"The strategy is to buy inexpensive foods that still provide the nutrients that support good health," says Dr. Mickey Harpaz, a nutritionist and exercise physiologist with offices in New York and Connecticut.

Some tips:

Stop buying junk. Processed entrees, snacks, soda and juices often are expensive and do nothing for your body.

Especially in a tough economy, "it's unbelievable how many people struggle with trying to feel happy at work," says Ellen Golding, a psychologist based in Los Angeles.

Her tips:

Don't isolate. Walk around and greet co-workers and attend staff lunches and office parties, even if you have to force yourself.

Parents don't always have the best habits when it comes to packing healthy school lunches.

"There are lots of ways to make things more varied, fun and colorful," says Jennifer Shea, a Boston-based dietitian who works with several grocery chains. Here are some don'ts:

Walking is great exercise, but falling into a rut -- same route, speed and form -- can stall your progress. Kick into higher gear with these tips:

Hold your head high. The ideal walking posture is upright, with shoulders back and not slouched. You'll work more muscles to hold that position, including your stomach and buttocks. "It all starts with posture," says Dr. John Schaffer, an orthopedic surgeon at Sentara Leigh Hospital in Norfolk, Va.