By HiLite Staff

Around this time, many students’ New Year’s resolutions often begin to fade and are quickly forgotten until next year. It’s not a surprise that most New Year’s resolutions don’t continue past the first month. In fact, according to an article published in the New York Times, research conducted by the University of Minnesota in 2008 shows that by Valentine’s Day, 80 percent of those who make New Year’s resolutions fall off the wagon. This is especially true for the most common and most important resolutions, like losing weight or getting fit, but there’s no better time for students to remain resolute.

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Services, 13 percent of high school students in Indiana are obese, which is defined by having a body mass index of 95 percentile or higher. Other facts of interest are that 20 percent of high school students did not participate in at least 60 minutes of physical activity on any day during the seven days before the survey and 29 percent watched television three or more hours per day on an average school day. While the number of obese students rises and physical activity decreases, it is especially important for students to hold true to their fitness resolutions this year.

It’s a well-known fact that resolutions are hard to keep. Whether it’s to use the computer less or limit candy intake, everyone has trouble sometimes. However, there are some simple tips to succeed with a fitness or exercise resolution.

One important aspect of setting a resolution is that it needs to be specific. A defined goal needs to be set, like losing five pounds or working up to exercising four days a week. This will help keep students’ eyes on the prize. It will also be easier to evaluate the resolution and track improvement.

Another aspect to keep in mind is to enlist a buddy for help. Support is always a motivator. With the support of peers, it’s easier to keep up the workout routine and it can even provide entertainment and a distraction by talking.

The easiest way to lose weight and become overall healthier can involve basic everyday tasks. Livestrong.com lists many ways in which a few minutes of normal everyday activity can keep people fit. For example, instead of taking the elevator, use the stairs. According to the website, climbing the stairs tones leg muscles and burns calories. Purposely parking farther away also adds a little bit of exercise into the day by forcing people to walk more. Surprisingly, small changes like these in daily activity can make a big difference in fitness level.

Especially in the winter, it’s hard to go outside and get some exercise and fresh air. In this case, exercise usually must be done indoors. Why not hit the shopping mall? Livestrong.com suggests that after leaving each store, those seeking to increase fitness level should walk at least 500 steps before entering the next store. Remember that small changes in everyday activities add up quickly, and these changes can help maintain a healthy lifestyle.

There are also wintertime activities that double as good exercise. Ice-skating and skiing are great ways to keep in shape while also enjoying the outdoor weather.

Students must also remain optimistic despite the current weather. Though the dreary conditions can be a damper in keeping New Year’s resolutions, as the weather gets warmer and spring arrives, staying fit tends to become easier as exercise can be moved outdoors.

Students will benefit from setting a specific health goal and coming up with creative ways to keep it after the initial excitement of the resolution wanes. It’s important to especially focus on the ones that work on increasing fitness level and exercising more often because keeping fit should be a lifelong goal.