Need to lose weight and tone your body? Do you want to know the best way? Try these cardio workout routines and strength plan, starting today!

Losing weight can be as simple as putting one foot in front of the other. To show you how easy a pound-shedding program can be for just about anyone, we sought the help of exercise physiologist Ray Browning, M.S., of Nederland, Colo., co-author of Serious Training for Endurance Athletes (Human Kinetics, 1996) and the mastermind behind Shape’s interactive online weight-loss program, iShape.

Browning put together this exclusive workout featuring a walking, walk/run or running program that requires just 15-45 minutes, three to five days a week, plus a set of muscular strength and endurance-boosting workout routines you'll do just twice a week.

For optimum results, Browning also incorporated a few stretches into the workout routines.

"The combination of cardio, strength and stretching not only burns a lot of calories, it also shapes and tones your muscles and protects your body from injury as it adapts to a new routine," Browning says.

The most exciting part: You likely will boost your confidence and self-esteem as you progressively improve your abilities while getting firmer and slimmer. Whether you're just starting your workout routines or are 5k-fit, you'll see results in just six weeks. So, get ready to walk or run your butt off -- without having to work your butt off.

Discover a cardio workout that really works – and more weight loss tips and fitness tips by Shape.