By Michaela Ryan

How many times have you made a new year's resolution to get fit? And how many times have you decided by mid-January that it's all too hard?

If you want an achievable fitness goal for 2008, start your regime with one or more of these baby steps. The idea is simply to get off the couch and into some good habits — you don't have to run any marathons.

Scott Enright from Evolve Personal Training, Coolum Beach, says, "It's great just to get yourself moving again. Do things you can stick with. Then once you feel the benefits of being active, you can build it up from there."

1. Meet a friend for coffee

It's always nice to be out walking. Getting out the door is often the hardest part. In order to commit to a regular walking routine, why not involve a good friend? Arrange to meet at a cafe twice a week for a coffee or juice. Choose a location that requires you both to walk about two kilometres to get there and two kilometres back. (If there are a few hills in between, even better).

2. Do something you love

Isn't it great when exercise doesn't feel like exercise? If you love to rollerblade, rock climb, kayak, mountain bike, dance or swim in the ocean, why aren't you doing it more often? Enrol in a dance class or organise a weekly bike ride with a mate. It will give your fitness a kick start — it will also do wonders for your spirits.

3. Play with your kids

Christmas holidays are a great time to get out and about with kids. Jump on the trampoline, play chasey, walk to the playground, organise a family game of cricket at the park or beach. The options are endless. Your kids might have the best ideas. How about taking their lead?

4. Buy an MP3 player

If walking or running appeals, get a compact little MP3 player. Download songs that uplift your soul. It makes a run or walk so much more enjoyable.

Or for some serious motivation, go to mizone.com.au and download their free fitness training podcasts from Fitness First.

5. Hire a personal trainer

If your motivation is rock bottom, why not pay someone to kick your bum for a little while? Personal training is a fantastic way to stay accountable. If price is an issue, get together with a couple of friends and split the cost of a joint session. Sometimes it can be as cheap as $20 each.

Scott says, "Getting fit just takes one step at a time. It's very individual — the key is choosing activities which are sustainable for you."


For more information about Evolve Personal Training, go to www.evolvept.com.au

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