If you resolved to get fit in 2010, you’re certainly not alone. “I want to lose weight” or “I’m going to exercise more” are common mantras after January 1st. But rarely do these resolutions result in any lasting change. It isn’t easy to start something new. In fact, it can be downright difficult to create a new routine or change an old one. Yet we keep trying. If only we knew the magic solution to sticking with a fitness routine…

There may not be a magic spell for staying on target, but we’ve got several tips for getting your new fitness routine off to a good start and then sticking with it throughout the year.

1. Be realistic. Even if you were on the track team in high school or were a marathoner a year ago, you will not step onto the treadmill and immediately feel comfortable running a 7 minute mile if you weren’t yesterday. You will not sit down at a weight machine and suddenly be able to lift 100 lbs., so don’t even try it. Being realistic about your current state of fitness will allow you to see success early on, will help you avoid injuries and will keep you going back for more.
2. Be patient. After one successful, moderate intensity, 20 minute workout, don’t immediately increase both the intensity and time of your workouts. Give your body time to adjust to the new routine. Try sticking to your initial program for at least two weeks before you make any changes. And when you do decide to make changes, go slow.
3. Be strategic. Plan your workouts. Schedule them in your calendar. Join a gym you naturally drive near every day. Sign up for a class and pay up front. Pack your gym bag and carry it in your car. Do whatever you need to do to get your butt to the gym (or in front of that boot camp video).
4. Be flexible. If you have a busy week that doesn’t allow for hours on the elliptical, allow yourself the flexibility of 10 minute workouts or lunch time walks instead. If you know you have meetings in the evening one week, plan for an earlier wake up and squeeze your gym time in then. Don’t allow a new schedule or a few unexpected events to throw you off balance. Just get back into your routine or, if necessary, develop a new one as soon as possible.
5. Be curious. Once you’ve gotten into a routine, try something new. Experiment with intervals. Learn how to use that new machine. Ask a trainer to show you some basic strength exercises. See what different programs the cardio machines offer and give one a try. Check out the class listings and do something you’ve never done before. The more options you have and the better you know your gym, the more likely you will be to keep going.
6. Be playful. Don’t just trudge to the gym day after day, hating every moment of it. Work some fun into your exercise routine. Jump rope or play hopscotch. Chase a feather on the wind. Join a softball team. Create a contest with a partner at the gym. If you enjoy exercise, you will stick with it.
7. Be your own cheerleader. Reward yourself for consistency (or flexibility, if necessary). Give yourself a gold star or an iTunes download for every time you take that walk, every time you increase your workout intensity or every time you have to add another pound to your biceps curls. Motivate yourself with whatever positive reinforcement works for you.

It isn’t magic or special skills that get and keep us healthy. It is dedication and commitment to doing what is best for our own health and wellbeing. With some planning, purpose and positivity, you can see a fitter, healthier you emerge in 2010. Go out there and make those resolutions a reality. You can do it!

"Eat well. Live well. Be well."