New Year's Resolutions

  After the six week Thanksgiving to New Year's stretch known as the "Holidays," many are ready for the self-deprivation and discipline of New Year's resolutions.
  It's all around you - the commercials for weight loss programs and gyms - and it's near the top of everyone's conversation after a month-plus of excessive eating and drinking.
  For fitness adherents, there is little deviation in their exercise schedules. I always say "your body doesn't know what day it is," and its just as important to exercise during the Holidays (probably more), as after. You want to avoid the "yo-yo" syndrome of gained weight, followed by lost weight, inevitably followed again by more gained weight. In fact, every time an adult puts those five-plus pounds back on, it's usually a higher percentage of fat than the weight lost.
   Not that this calendar-induced regimen is totally bad. People need to start sometime, and having the support of other new or returning exercisers around you at the gym can give you that extra inspiration. Also, many regular exercisers almost plan their "down time" around the Holidays, and are mentally fresh and ready to go in January.
 January is a dark, cold time with not much else to distract you, socially. That makes it easier to wake up early on a weekend morning and get to the gym!
   Just set realistic goals. I always tell people: "Shoot for three days of exercise a week." Then every day over that (and you can go seven, if you mix it up enough) is like money in the bank. Aim to lose five pounds, even if the doctor told you that you need to shed 50.! You can't lose 50 without getting those first five!
   Work on portion control. One doctor I know tells his patients: "Start off by eating the same things you are now - just cut them portions in half." Weight-loss comes down to math of calories in vs. calories out, so I have heard worse advise than that!
   Of course, those with Diabetes or High Blood Pressure issues may need to make different food choices as well. Consult with a Physician or Nutritionist, and make one change at a time. When that becomes easy, make another..
   Diaries, both exercise and diet, can be good motivators for you. No one wants to write "12 chocolate chip cookies" in their diary!
   Charting exercise can help you reach goals (20 miles a week, or three hours of cardio), and also be a good tool to prevent or explain injury. Just don't run when sick or injured just to make some imaginary goal in yourm diary!
   Okay, enough talk fromme! It's January - go out there and reach your (realistic) goals!