New Year’s resolution resolve

It’s just a few days into the new year and folks all over are starting work on their resolutions. One of the most popular resolutions is to go to the gym, but many gym regulars see the newbies come and go just as fast as they make the resolution.

Life is lumpy – work, family and unexpected commitments can change your mind quickly. You have too much to do, so the gym has to wait.

“Just stick to it,” said Stacie VanKirk, recreation manager at the Pocatello Recreation Center. “I know most of us don’t feel like doing it every day. Even I’m one of those people. But we’ve got to come and just stick with our goals.”

VanKirk said membership goes up in the winter, usually dependent on when the weather gets cold. But come the new year, the people start to disappear and usually not because of good weather.

“We do see that drop off,” said VanKirk. “It usually happens in February and into March.”

VanKirk said making the resolution to get healthy this year is very difficult because it’s more than people really think it is. It isn’t just going to the gym. It’s a whole lifestyle change.

“It’s about the whole package,” she said. “It’s about eating right, getting here, working out and then modifying all parts of your life. And then that’s where you’re doing to see the result.”

VanKirk said it’s also a mindset. The idea is to not overdo it in your eagerness to fulfill your self-set goals.

“Don’t even make it a resolution,” she said. “Just get the membership and do what you can. Don’t set yourself up for failure by thinking, ‘I’m going to go five days a week.’ Set something that’s realistic and then get here.”

Vankirk says if you really want to be healthier, it’s a big change and you have to be ready for it. She also said a personal trainer can help you figure out the best way to start your new regimen.

It’s also important to remember working out is more than just with equipment. Things like swimming can also help start at a pace you can maintain.