By Tim Mandell
Losing weight and getting into shape are two of the most common New Year’s resolutions.
Keeping on track is the difficult part.
An estimated 40 to 45 percent of American adults make one or more resolutions each year, according to an article in the Journal of Clinical Psychology by Dr. John Norcross, a clinical psychologist and professor of psychology at the University of Scranton.
The most popular resolutions are weight loss, exercise and quitting smoking, writes Norcross.
He goes on to state that 75 percent of people maintain the resolution past the first week, 71 percent after the second week, 64 percent past one month and 46 percent maintain the resolution after six months.
Men’s Health Magazine writes that when attempting to eat healthy or begin an exercise program, it takes 21 days to create a habit and six months for it to become part of ones daily life.
Men’s Health states that the best ways to accomplish goals are to choose ones that are realistic and attainable, to make a plan and if possible, participate with another person.
It is also recommended to reward yourself for reaching milestones, to keep a detailed journal and to be aware that there will be bumps in the road along the way and to find ways to overcome those bumps.
Another solution is to join a gym or hire a personal trainer.
“January is typically a time when we get a large influx of new members,” said Rick Lewis, a personal trainer and the owner of Personal Best. “The holidays and the new year are a good time to think about fitness and to get involved in a fitness program.”
The Richmond Athletic Club also sees a large number of new members in the new year, said manager Bobby Stewart.
Oftentimes, new members try to do too much.
“Don’t overdo it to start with,” Stewart said. “A lot of people come into the gym and go crazy for a week or two. Take it light. Ease into it.”
Eating healthy also is key in losing weight and getting into shape.
For children, eating a balanced meal is especially important.
The YMCA reports that “young kids and teens who eat regularly with their families eat more fruits, vegetables, fiber and whole grains and eat less soda and snack food.”
Fruits and vegetables, healthy, unsaturated-fat food and whole-grain or protein option foods should be served at every snack and meal, water should be the primary drink option and everything should be consumed in moderation, according to the YMCA.
Tim Mandell can be reached at tmandell@ richmondregister.com or 623-1669 ext. 6696.
