By Jennifer Azzi

Sacramento Monarchs guard Ticha Penicheiro, four time WNBA All-Star, clearly understands the value of being in good shape. Ticha has led the WNBA in assists per game for 6 seasons. It takes a lot of hard work and energy to create shots and pass with such precision. In addition, Ticha holds the record for most steals in a game-10! Ticha's combination of mental toughness, skill, with an outstanding fitness level makes her of the best point guards to ever play in the WNBA.

Ticha Penicheiro, Sacramento Monarchs Jennifer Pottheiser/NBAE/Getty Images

How has fitness helped your game?

"Being in good shape is very important to me. On the basketball court, having your body in good shape is key. Having my wind makes me feel great. Fitness is the top priority for great athletes in any sport."

What is your favorite workout to help your cardiovascular conditioning?

"I get bored if I do the same thing all of the time. During a 45 minute workout, I will do a combination of machines in the gym. I will start with the bike, then do the treadmill, and finish with the stairmaster. I recommend working out like this because you work different muscles and it does not get monotonous. I also run outside sometimes with my dog. He has a lot of energy, so I have to keep up!"

What other things do you do to keep in shape?

"I lift weights three times a week and I work in Pilates as well. It is important to pay attention to both lower and upper body workouts. Balance is the key to overall fitness. You can't just focus on your upper or lower body. You have to work all of your muscle groups."

What do you do when you are not motivated to workout?

"Everyone has those days. Look in the mirror or put on a pair of jeans and say 'I gotta workout.' My job depends on it, but I have those days too. This is where a workout partner comes in handy."

What would you tell the average person to encourage them to exercise?

"In Europe, we walk everywhere. Walking is a great form of exercise. You burn as many calories as you do when you are running. If you commit yourself to walking everyday for 30 to 60 minutes, you will see your body change, and it is not hard to do. I encourage all of you with dogs to walk them a little extra everyday and you will see results in your fitness level. Also, it is important to eat right-a balanced diet."

What other tips can you share?

"Exercise is all about priorities. If you want to do it, you will. Have a partner or neighbor to exercise with. It is easy to get lazy, but if you have someone there, it helps a lot. My parents decided to make some changes in their heath. They are motivating each other, cooking together, and exercising and seeing great results."

Playing against Ticha was never fun. We were always told to keep her out of the lane, because once she got in there, she was going to get someone the ball to score. You have to be in great shape to play the game like that!

I too believe that walking is a great form of exercise. When I played in Europe, I walked to and from practice everyday. I started losing weight simply because I had to walk! Both Ticha and I encourage all of you to get out and walk. It's fun!