It has been an unprecedented year so far in personal fitness. It seems like there are more people than ever who are taking control of their health and well being. Our gyms are certainly busier than ever and the growing number of fitness activities and classes seem to portray the same. The message is out there that your lifestyle has a direct impact on your fitness and health. Many people are eating better and more active.

Of course it is just the beginning of 2012, January is over and we are just getting into February. Many people are still acting upon their New Years fitness resolutions. The resolution of increased activity and better eating habits is a noble one but it is only effective if you follow through on it and make it a lifestyle change.  Do not make the mistake of committing to a New Year’s resolution of training five to six days a week and eating in such a way that you cannot maintain it. Someone who does this, and returns to their old habits after a couple of months will be in no better shape next January.

Far better to do something sustainable. Increase your activity to something you can maintain...three, maybe four days a week and educate yourself on healthy eating with lots of variety. If you are still doing the same thing when next January rolls around you will be in better shape. You have changed your lifestyle for a year, not just done something for a month. 

People who incorporate healthy habits into their lifestyle will see a marked improvement. It’s all how you view your fitness and how you incorporate it into the way you live.  Be regimented enough to practice some activity on a regular basis, but not  so regimented that you never get any variety in you pursuits, which can turn something challenging and enjoyable into a mundane routine. Remember slow and steady sometimes really does win the race. If you are still following a New Years Fitness resolution, maintain it, sustain it and the results you seek will be yours.