The 2009 New Year's celebrations may seem like forever ago, but there's still half the year ahead, which is plenty of time to regain your resolution mojo. So if your resolve to get in shape is as flat as leftover champagne, it may be time to make a behavioral u-turn for the rest of the year.


We can all agree that making a major life change, like committing to a regular fitness routine, isn't easy. The exercise experts at Life Fitness have some ideas to shelve those excuses and plow forward with your fitness journey. If your 2009 goal was to:


  • Lose weight: It might be too late to make your goal by January 2010, but it's not too late to make significant strides. Losing 1 - 2 pounds per week is considered a safe, realistic path to weight loss, so set yourself up to achieve these mini goals that will keep you motivated on your path to the big prize.
  • Run a marathon: Most of the fall marathons are booked and their training programs are well underway, but that doesn't mean 2009 can't be your year of the half marathon or 10k. Check out sites like Runner's World for training plans at all distance and fitness levels then find a running group in your community or grab a buddy and hit the treadmill together.
  • Stress less: Current economic conditions may have dampened your plans for a year of relaxation, but one tool to reduce anxiety, build confidence and release negative feelings is regular exercise. Try a new class at your gym, challenge yourself with strength training or hit the tennis court with a pal as a remedy to beat everyday anxieties.


Fit Tips are provided by Life Fitness, the leader in designing and manufacturing high-quality exercise equipment for fitness facilities and homes worldwide. For more information on Fit Tips and other fitness advice and expertise visit www.lifefitness.com or follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/LifeFitness.