Set realistic fitness goals for 2010

I promised myself that I would not write an article on New Year's resolutions. But as you can see, I could not resist.

This is not your traditional New Year's resolution speech; certainly you have heard a number of those.

We all know we should not overeat, we should not eat too much refined flour and sugars, we should not smoke, we should not drink a lot of alcohol, we should not be sedentary and so on and so forth.

But what about saying yes to some things for a change? Let's focus on the positive things we can all do to improve our quality of life.

After all, it is all about having a wonderful quality of life, no matter how long you are here on this earth.

Making lofty New Year's resolutions can prove to be your own worst enemy.

Try instead making positive and attainable lifestyle changes each day until they become habits.

And what a better time to start then the beginning of a brand new year? The following suggestions are realistic, attainable and measurable.

That is very important as you embark upon a new year. Many New Year's resolutions fade quickly because they are unrealistic, unattainable and impossible to measure.

So let's say "I will" to the following lifestyle changes for 2010 that meet the above criteria:

•I will eat some fruit everyday. Try to make it fruit that is in season or fresh frozen.

•I will eat some veggies everyday. Raw or streamed vegetables would be a great choice.

•I will eat foods that are colorful; those are the ones that contain the most vitamins. Try sweet potatoes, green peppers, red peppers, broccoli, carrots, tomatoes and spinach just to name a few.

•I will drink the recommended amount of water each day. Check with your fitness professional or your physician to know how much water you may need.

•I will strive to eat foods that are baked or grilled, not fried.

•I will park far away and walk instead of circling around the parking lot to find the closest parking space.

•I will try to quit smoking (if you are a smoker)

•I will take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator.

•I will strive to get planned exercise 4-5 days per week (more if possible). Try to include cardio exercise, resistance training and flexibility.

•I will try whole wheat and whole grains in cereals and breads instead of white flour and those products high in sugar.

•I will try low-fat dairy products.

Another important piece of the puzzle for the healthy lifestyle changes for 2010 is to make sure you get preventive health care. Stay up to date with all of your checkups and health screenings. Do not put off tests that could save your life.

Well there you have it, my New Year's resolution speech for 2010. I hope some of these suggestions will help you have a healthier new year. See you in the gym!