It's no surprise then, why losing weight and getting in shape become the number one New Year's resolutions. Unfortunately, the vast majority of people who make this resolution on January 1 have already given up on it by the middle of the month.

But there are strategies that can keep you motivated and working toward your goal as you incorporate lifestyle changes that will serve you well for the rest of your life. "It's as simple as finding an eating plan and an exercise regimen that work for you", says Jeff Zwiefel, senior vice president, Life Time Fitness, a national operator of large and distinctive health and fitness centers. "Once you find that plan, you then need to make it a part of your daily routine."

Don't Diet -- Just Eat Right

There are so many diets around, it can be tempting to try a different one every week. But the best way to lose weight and keep it off is to adopt a balanced, common sense approach to eating.

In a guidebook provided to its members, Life Time Fitness nutritionists recommend that instead of a big breakfast, lunch and dinner, people eat several small balanced meals and a couple of small snacks throughout the day. Balanced meals should include protein, complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables to give your body the fuel it needs for optimal functioning. Eating a good variety of foods will also ensure that you feel satisfied and will be less prone to overeat or sneak in unhealthy snacks.

Keep Up with Your Workout

Life Time Fitness trainers recommend that people who are serious about losing weight and keeping it off participate in aerobic training exercise a minimum of three times a week for at least 30 minutes at a time. This includes activities such as walking, biking, jogging, swimming, aerobic classes and dancing. Resistance training exercises, such as weight lifting that address all the major muscle groups, should be part of the plan as well. Aim for at least twice a week for a minimum of 30 minutes per session.

If you're considering joining a health club as part of your efforts to get in shape, make sure you choose one that fits your needs and your schedule. It should be conveniently located to home or work, offer classes and programs that interest you, and have a trained, professional staff to help you put together a personalized workout program.

Offerings available to members at Life Time Fitness, for example, include a variety of classes that include everything from Pilates and yoga to cycle extreme and cardio funk, with fun and challenging classes for all fitness levels. "Life Time Fitness has something for all ages and all abilities," says Zwiefel.

Don't Forget to Reward Yourself

As you work toward your fitness goals, remember to reward yourself for progress along the way. Treat those hardworking muscles to a massage, or pamper your feet with a pedicure.

Life Time Fitness members can take advantage of the on-site spa for everything from facials to a Turkish body rub. Just one more way to motivate yourself to get to the gym.

Permanent lifestyle change takes time to accomplish -- there is no quick fix or magic bullet. But staying active and eating right are critical for health and wellness, and pay off in the long run. "Getting and staying fit is a long-term goal, and Life Time Fitness is there to help members all along the way," says Zwiefel.

For more information on Life Time Fitness, visit www.Lifetimefitness.com or call (952) 947-0000.

Courtesy of ARA Content