2010 is finally here, 2009 is now becoming a memory (hopefully a good one). And in the midst of that I’m sure you all have your New Years Resolutions set for the year. And I know for sure that on most of those lists are points like “lose weight”, “get fit” or even something as intense as “finish the comrades and run three triathlons”. Don’t get me wrong, all of these are very good (and very attainable) New Year's Resolutions. But lets face it, how often do we stick to these?

Perhaps it’s got more to do with the extremity of the resolution as opposed to the resolution itself. Part of the reason why often have tossed the list of resolutions which were cast in stone at the beginning of the year is because we set ourselves unrealistic goals. Goals like losing 15 kilograms before the end of February or finishing the Comrades Marathon when you’ve only started training in January. I firmly believe we would stay true to these resolutions if they were more attainable.

Therefore if losing weight is your overall resolution, then set yourself a long-term and a short-term goal. For instance- short term it is generally accepted that losing 1kg per week is realistic and attainable. This will then allow you to set a long-term goal based on this. If your goal is to get fitter, then allow your body to get used to the higher intensity of training by giving yourself a rest day. At the end of the day you need to be realistic about what you are capable of without losing sight of what you are aiming for. I hope that 2010 is a good, healthy year for you!

Shona Hendricks