by Laura Emery, Field Editor

The holidays have come and gone � but what will probably linger a while longer are the extra pounds from holiday dining.

The Internet is one of the fitness world�s underutilized resources, with its never-ending supply of fitness-focused websites. There are many websites that feature workout routines people can do in the privacy of their own homes. So, if your crunches are crooked or your weightlifting a little wobbly, then nobody will be the wiser. Or, if you�re not motivated enough to venture out in chilly winter temperatures to make it to the gym, throw down a blanket and do a few exercises in front of the television set for as long as you feel comfortable.

If you have access to the Internet, then you have a membership to the �World Wide gym,� where you can access a wide assortment of dieting secrets, fitness tips and workout routines, and read informative articles on everything from conquering crunches to cutting carbohydrates.

Following is a compilation of must-visit websites to get started on putting together your own personal World Wide Web workout.

The First in Fitness

eDiets.com is a hugely popular website that focuses on fitness and dieting. One of its greatest services is the email newsletter, where you can sign up to get a daily dose of fitness and diet techniques and tips, as well as entertaining articles and columns.

Brain Up Before You Bulk

MSNBC�s fitness page (www.msnbc.msn. com/id/3034511/ns/health-fitness) is a great resource for articles and fitness-related news. Find out about new advancements and studies in the areas of fitness and health before you hit the gym or start a new workout or diet routine.

The Mayo Clinic site (www.mayoclinic.com) is owned by Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, and is based on information provided by doctors, scientists, nurses and other professionals. Get specific info about diseases, conditions, illnesses, injuries and health.

The official website of the American Heart Association (www.heart.org/heartorg) covers all aspects of heart disease, stroke and general health and fitness. 

Workout Central

About.com�s exercise section has it all. Visit http://exercise.about.com for everything from the 10-minute vacation workout to the pyramid upper body workout.

Freetrainers.com (www.freetrainers.com) provides custom exercise programs and weight-loss diet plans to aid and guide you through your health and fitness goals fast. The website offers free fitness plans, nutritional plans, and health resources, including workouts for cardiac health, strength training, stamina training, weight loss, sports performance training, post-natal health, and much more.

Yearning for Yoga

More and more athletes and average exercisers are turning to yoga, the ancient Indian meditative technique of twists, stretches and poses in order to slim their shape and relax the mind, body, and soul.

Do Yoga With Me (www.doyogawithme. com) is a free, constantly expanding resource of free online yoga videos created by experienced instructors. Learn poses, breathing techniques, and more in the comfort of your own home. You can even check out the website�s guided audio meditations or read the blog and learn how to maintain optimal health and prevent common physical issues.

Another highly rated yoga website is The Yoga Site (www.yogasite.com/postures.html). This general guide outlines the various forms of yoga, helps users find a yoga teacher, and offers yoga books for sale.

Nutrition and Weight Loss

The American Dietetic Association (www.eatright.org) should be the first place you go for reliable nutrition information. Brush up on your food pyramid knowledge, or check out their healthy lifestyle tips.

A Guy Thing

Men�s Health (www.menshealth.com) is an all-around great resource for men of all ages, but it�s also a good place to go for men�s fitness information. Currently featured: the three-point push-up to develop your chest; The Home Workout Bible; and how to bust off the beer belly in just four weeks.

Mostly For the Ladies

Shape Magazine (www.shape.com) is a great place for step-by-step exercise instructions. Get weight-loss advice, beauty secrets and exercise tips from this health and fitness magazine.

Weight Watchers (www.weightwatchers.com) has informative articles, and you can also choose from a large selection of toning and strength-building routines designed for both women and men.