How to stick with New Year’s resolutions

SALISBURY, Md. – Resolutions are practically synonymous with the New Year. A common goal is to eat healthier and go to the gym. But ask anyone and they’ll likely tell you about someone who has previously lost sight of their resolution.

47 ABC spoke with a local gym owner and trainer, as well as a dietitian, to learn about some ways you can see those goals through. First things first, when it comes to both diet and exercise, experts say you have to set realistic goals. You should also keep in mind that what you eat is just as important as physical activity.

“Rather than focusing on making a huge massive change for your New Years Resolutions ,and not sticking with it, it’s better to set some smaller goals and actually make lifestyle change and stick with them for the year,” says Tamara Giles, R.D. and L.D., a licensed dietitian with Peninsula Regional Medical Center.

“Diet is 50 percent of the equation. Working out is the other 50 percent. You can work out all day long. You can live in a gym. But if you’re not doing the dietary part, you’re failing. So diet is a huge part of it,” says J.D. Cherry, head trainer and owner of One More Rep in Salisbury.

Experts recommend writing down a one week, one month and six month goal. Remember that you have to start somewhere and it’s better to start with a slow consistent plan that will be easy to stick with. If you’re having trouble starting, try asking your doctor for recommendations or working out with a personal trainer.