Kathy Fang (Courtesy) 

 San Francisco’s Chef Kathy Fang, a fitness enthusiast and two-time champion of TV’s “Chopped” cooking competition, loves to cook and to eat, but somehow maintains a gloriously fit figure.

Growing up in the restaurant business, Kathy learned to fine-tune her diet and exercise routine so she can stay in fantastic shape while living her life surrounded by delicious food.

No matter what your schedule or lifestyle, her easy-to-follow tips will help you get in shape and stay in shape.

For recipes and other information about Chef Kathy Fang, you can go to KathyFang.com or check out her popular food blog, MyFangalicious.com.

Consider this advice from Kathy your fitness cheat sheet.

 FIND A WORKOUT YOU LOVE

Everyone is different when it comes to finding a workout that is a match for their body and preferences. Rather than jumping around from one trending workout routine or class to another that promises to burn the most calories, focus on finding an activity that you truly enjoy.

Something that is intense and challenging but fun enough to help ensure you will stay on track.

 THROW THAT SCALE OUT

I threw out my scale about six years ago. Visually seeing the changes in my body when I commit to a workout routine is a way more effective way to track my progress.

Stop obsessing over weight and start to think about how you feel and look after all the hard work you’ve put in. It’s far more rewarding and effective.

 DON’T SKIP MEALS – EAT!

When I need to whip my body into quick shape within months for a beach vacation, I plan my meals out and eat four to six times a day. I eat small meals throughout the day and lots of snacks that pack protein.

Protein makes me feel satisfied and full while building muscle. It’s super waist-friendly too. Skip the carbs and nosh on peanut butter, turkey deli meat, hard boiled eggs, hummus, raw nuts, salads, soups, steaks, roasts or seafood!

 DITCH PROTEIN BARS

I hate the protein bar sections. Don’t ruin your workout and eat that bar thinking it’s a great meal replacement. It’s packed with sugar and carbs.

Eat real food. Pack almond butter, celery sticks, raw walnuts, cheese sticks or an apple in your bag for a quick pick-me-up after a workout.

 CHEAT ONCE A WEEK!

Cut yourself a break and cheat once a week. We are human after all. We have cravings and sometimes you gotta give in. The real trick is how often you give in. You can enjoy it because you know you’ll be back on track the day after. It helps me stay sane and makes the beach body goal more attainable.

Editor’s Note

Tamra Bolton is a freelance writer based in East Texas. This story appears in the Jan.-Feb. issue of Lifestyles Magazine.