A New Year, A New You

It’s a new year, and around this time, the BGR team receives a couple of emails from women who are eager to conquer their New Year’s resolutions, which are to drop some pounds and get in shape. However, we understand how challenging it can be to get started. I know that I have personally made this resolution several times, and not been able to follow through. Some of the reasons I failed are because of poor planning, lack of motivation and lack of information. I want you guys to succeed with your fitness resolutions for 2011, so here are some tips to help you out. 1. If you resolved to start running this year, then the best place to start is with the C25k program. (C25k stands for Couch to 5k race) The program is great for beginners because it lays out a nine-week training program that gradually helps you build endurance by mixing walking and jogging. 2. Explore! – Although Toni and I love running, we are realistic and know that everyone is not going to be a runner. However, there are so many ways to get your cardio in. I think it is important to explore your options. When I am not running, I am taking a cardio strength class, playing soccer, swimming, or biking. My motto is simple: Find something that you enjoy doing so you are more likely to stick with it. 3. Food Diary – You can’t meet your fitness goals without monitoring what you eat. A handful of M&Ms here, a can of soda and bag of chips there, can add up pretty quickly. Write down everything you eat so you can track your intake and see where you need to cut back. 4. Find support – One of the things that was most difficult for me when I was getting in shape was finding support. Luckily, I had a co-worker who I could talk to, and who was very encouraging. I think that you need that person you can reach out to or call when you are craving junk or not motivated to work out. Conversely, you may have to cut a few people loose if they are not supporting you in your efforts. All right ladies, what are your New Year’s resolutions? What tips can you share on keeping resolutions? Let’s keep each other lifted in 2011!

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