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Change for 2005 – ARE YOU READY? Sarina Jain Sarina Jain, founder and creator of masala bhangra workout and the Indian Jane Fonda is rapidly emerging as an irresistibly energetic instructor and choreographer focusing on Indian "modern Bhangara" dance style as well as other dance styles

As a certified fitness expert, it does not surprise me to see the gyms filled at the start of the year with “resolution setters.” It is always at this time of year that the range of dedicated fitness enthusiasts, versus those not so, becomes most evident. According to Shape magazine, about 60% of all New Year’s vows involve fitness and weight loss and only 19% of us actually follow through! The most common reasons cited for not continuing with an exercise regimen are lack of time and boredom – however, what’s interesting is that those who do exercise regularly also cite lack of time as an ongoing problem for them…but these individuals fit regular exercise into their daily schedules.

Do you want a healthier lifestyle? Do you want change in your life? Do you want to look better and feel better? NOW is the time! Setting the right goals and following a few key tips can help you get there – BUT you have to passionately want it. Looking good and feeling good about your body is a combination of working out (HARD) and counting your consumption of calories and carbohydrates. But remember - Act as if your body is your temple – Worship it! Respect it! Cherish it!

Here are a few tips to get you started in a positive direction:

1. Keep a journal. Jot down everything, from the types of food and amounts you consume, the beverages you drink, and your workout schedule - how many reps you do of each exercise. The Surgeon General recommends that one should exercise at least times a week for at least 30 minutes; if you want to see results fast and soon – increase the minutes of your cardio workout.
2. Set short term and long term goals to keep you motivated. A short term goal is something like: going to the gym 3 days this week, and working out for at least 30 minutes each time. A long term goal is something like: losing 20 lbs. in the next 6 months.
3. Include weight training as part of your exercise regimen. Lifting weights, even light ones, is essential to toning your body, and important for long term muscle development and bone strengthening.
4. Be consistent. Even if you already exercise, working out consistently gives you more focus and stamina, and helps to maintain exercise as part of your daily routine. We all seem to have busier lives, however, it is important to remind yourself that exercising is part of a healthy life style, and does not have to be a chore.
5. Avoid boredom. If you have been working out and the effectiveness of your workouts seem to be stagnant, change things up a bit, and focus on something else. For example, if you aren’t noticing any significant improvements to your stamina and cardiovascular strength, focus more on weight training to tone the muscles. Try different exercises that will challenge you, pick a new sport to learn, try doing group exercises classes that are offered at the gym, or try rejuvenating your body either through yoga or something that is different for you.
6. Spring cleaning doesn’t only have to be in the spring time! Clean out those cupboards -- minimize the junk food. Keep colorful fruits or vegetables out at eye level so when you are hungry for something – these mouth quenching, juicy items are easy to grab. Decrease your intake of soda and alcohol since they both have a lot of empty calories. Try to smoke less if you do inhale. You will see a vast difference with these small changes.
7. Stay warm and cozy. Since the weather is getting colder, make sure you stretch out as much as possible, and hold each stretch for 5 – 10 seconds longer than normal. The cold weather tends to stiffen muscles and they need to be warmed up more. Plus stretching creates flexibility and allows the blood circulation to flow more easily.
8. Be positive. You are your own worst critic, and it is easier to be down about the negative parts of your body, rather than focus on what your strengths are. Just remember – deciding to keep exercise as a regular part of your life is a big step - you are in this for the long run. So, it is more important to build up your stamina, tone your body, and lose those extra pounds in a positive, healthy way if you want to keep it that way.
9. And…take your time. There is no need to be in a hurry to lose those extra pounds. Now is as good a time as any, but listen to your body first. Everything takes time and you want to make sure the weight stays off, and that you build exercise into your daily life for the long run. Remember your body is your temple! Take care of it!

Let’s toast to a positive and healthy you – the ‘resolution keeper’ in 2005! Cheers everyone!

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