Remembering those New Year's Resolutions

January is almost at an end, and if you are like most people out there, you made a goal to try and exercise more, eat healthier, or just be more fit all around. So how are you doing? It's a great time to look back on this month and see how successful you were. If you were able to stick to those goals you made for yourself great, keep it up. If not, it's okay, February is a brand new month to try and be a little more focused and determine on achieving those fitness goals.

For those of you who need some motivation, I have a little piece of advice. Start off setting small, attainable goals. Even if it's going to the gym once this week, you have to start somewhere. This way you are able to see and feel success and are determined to achieve more. It doesn't take that much to improve your health. Health benefits can result by being active for just 30 minutes a day. It is recommended to get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity on all or most days of the week*. Which if you think about it, that's only about 3 hours a week. This still may be challenging for some, but I know it's possible. As you become more fit and are able to increase the time and intensity of your work outs, you will see even greater results. I know it can be hard to fit in time to exercise, but you are worth it! Invest in yourself now, and you will gain huge rewards later in life. You will also feel better, have more energy, and be healthier.

I know it's not easy. Why do you think that losing weight and exercising more are always some of the top New Year's resolutions? And still recent studies show that about 66% of Americans are considered overweight or obese**. It takes time and planning, it takes energy and effort, and it takes a good amount of self control and dedication to exercise regularly and eat right. It is difficult, and set backs are bound to happen. However, you don't have to be alone in achieving your goals. One of the best ways for staying motivated and accountable is having someone else supporting you along the way. Whether that person is a family member, a friend, or personal trainer, they can help you stay on track and cheer you on while reaching your goals.

Being healthy is not just a New Year's resolution, but a lifelong resolution. So don't get discouraged if you haven't done as well as you would have liked this past month. Keep moving forward; setting small goals, recognizing your accomplishments, and you'll get there.


*Source: American College of Sports Medicine
**Source: Health, United States, 2011, table 69