10 Ways to Set Your New Years Resolution Exercise and Health Goals in 2012

1. Begin slowly. Be careful not to overdo it. Do only five or ten minutes of exercise at first, even if it is only walking around the block.
2. Find activities that you truly enjoy. Your chances of sticking with an unpleasant program for the long term are not good.
3. Increase your workout time and intensity not more than about 10 percent per week.
4. Listen to your body. If a joint or muscle begins to hurt, ease off or find another activity to do instead for a few days. If you feel strong, go a little further or harder.
5. Find an exercise partner. A dog is ideal, but a friend or family member will do fine as well. My husband James routinely writes prescriptions to his patients to walk their dog as a motivator for them.
6. Stay well hydrated.
7. Get advice from a pro. Hire a personal trainer to give you pointers on what is best for you. Even if it is for only an occasional hour to receive tips and a fresh workout routine, professional input can really keep you on track.
8. Cross-train. This is one of the most important features of a ideal exercise routine. Different activities will prevent injuries and burnout and keep you enthused and optimally fit.
9. Start your exercise slowly, with five or ten minutes at a low-level intensity warm-up pace. Save the stretching for after the exercise session.
10. Set goals and reward yourself when you achieve them. Sign up for a race or an active vacation for which you will need to train.

In Good Health,

Joan O’Keefe, RD

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Photo credit: See-ming Lee

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