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Here are five financial exercises that will help you get financial fit.

1.  Plan. It is very difficult to succeed at anything if you don't have a plan.  Your plan should include income and expenses.  Don't forget about those quarterly and annual expenses that you need to set aside some money in savings every month to cover when they come due.  You'll be amazed at what you learn about your spending when you examine it closely.  Start with everything you earned and spent for the past two months.  Then, put together a plan for this month.

2.  Use cash instead of credit.  There are a number of studies that show that you will spend less if you use cash.  The more you think about what you're buying, the better control over you'll have over your spending habits.

3.  Save something.  Saving includes getting your emergency fund in place.  Start with pulling together $1000.  Then build your savings to cover 3 to 6 months of your expenses. Don't forget to set aside something every month for those quarterly and annual expenses as well as those big purchases you will someday make---new tires, new furniture, new car.  And finally, set aside 15% of your income for your future, including college, a house, and your retirement.

4.  Look at your insurance plans and cost compare each time you are coming up for renewal.  But don't wait until then if you haven't looked at your policies in a while.  I saved hundreds of dollars by shopping for new term life insurance, homeowners insurance, and auto insurance.  Now that I'm on a private health insurance plan as well, I shopped around.  Don't buy more than you need and don't be under insured.  It will pay off to read some books on how much and what type of insurance you need.  Get informed and save a bundle.

5.  It's spring, so sell what you don't need.  Clear out the clutter and make some cash.  Put that cash to good work in your financial fitness program.