The Oaks at Ojai (California)
New Year’s resolutions are wonderful. We pop a new calendar on the wall, write a list of things we want to do or change and then for about a month, everything is perfect. Then reality rears its head, the weather is cold, the kids are sick, the boss expects up to be miracles workers and at least the fitness expectations and goals we made fall by the wayside.

Here are some tips to get back on the fitness “bandwagon” and be realistic so that you can commit your mind and body to healthier living year round.

*Get help. If you have a significant amount of unwanted body fat, make an appointment with your health professional. If she is not compassionate and helpful, find another doctor. Your physician is on your side, the side of feeling your best. Find a friend who is thoughtful and supportive and ask if you can share your woes and goals. *Get real. Understand that you may never be able to fit into your wedding dress, high school band jacket or military uniform in the same way you did five or forty years ago. Time makes our bodies change. Even though you might not weigh what you did years back, you can still be strong, flexible and have good endurance regardless of your age and abilities, including those who are wheelchair bound.

*Get started: Walking is THE best form of fitness for most people, because it can be done anywhere and at any time. Make walking fun. If you don’t like or feel comfortable walking alone ask your spouse or a friend to join you. Vary your routine and the terrain (let someone know where you’re headed and carry ID, just in case). Set realistic goals. This could be: I’ll walk every morning before work/school. Or: I’ll walk 45 minutes after work. Studies show that if you tie a new habit, in this case walking, onto an old one, you’re more likely to keep the new habit. In the morning, read the comics and then go out walking. In the evening, organize preparations for dinner and then go for a walk.

*Get “shoed” up: Choose shoes are right for your sport and fit your foot. Athletic shoes should never have to be “broken in.” Don’t be surprised if you must pay more than you do for ones you wear to the office. Try on a few brands and do so while wearing the socks you’ll put on when you walk.

*Get it recorded: Keep a record of your walking progress and your health goals. A fitness journal works well for this and you need not share it with anyone. Why? You might want to write out a few gripes and complaints and that’s strictly your business. One friend put a map of the United States on her bedroom wall and charted her progress in miles (she walks 4 miles a day). It was fun and she kept reporting to her adult children where she was “walking” each day. *Get dressed with an attitude: The best way to get into the habit of eating smart and exercising is to have the right clothing. Select clothing that makes you feel good, regardless of your age or weight. No one will make fun of you—most will be jealous that you’re doing something great for your health. Most walkers wear comfortable, layered outfits, and socks that wick away moisture from the feet. Be sure to include sunscreen when getting ready. While you can walk on a treadmill, and for some that may be the safest way to exercise, by walking outdoors you are exposed to the sun and light, which can combat the doldrums that may occur during the winter months.

*Get smart about food and life: Foods that are fatty, filled with ingredients that sound like the language from a science fiction movie, or are made with lots of sugar simply don’t fit a healthy body. If you’re serious about getting back your health and fitness level, choose lean protein sources, make sure you’re getting enough calcium and whole grains and lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, too. Talk with your doctor about the medications you’re taking and health screening you might need in the future.

*Get going: Today is a great day to begin taking the right steps to get back to a healthy, fun, youthful future. Make your New Year’s Resolutions Year Round Resolutions as you become even more determined to stay fit for life.