If losing weight is at the top of your New Year’s resolution list, you’re not alone. Each year, thousands of Americans resolve to lose weight and get fit. Keeping that resolution, however, can prove much more difficult.

According to Adam Williams, exercise specialist at Baptist Family Fitness, the motivation to shed those unwanted pounds should come not only from the desire to look better, but also to feel better and live healthier.

“Excessive weight compromises one’s health,” says Williams. “It increases the risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and other life-threatening diseases. That’s why it’s so important to eat right and exercise in order to successfully maintain a healthy weight.”

Williams says that most successful weight loss efforts combine these three strategies:

• Reduced food intake. “Most overweight and obese people can lose one to two pounds a week by cutting 500 to 1,000 calories from their diets each day,” says Williams. He adds that reducing fat intake is also important and can be achieved by filling up on fruits and vegetables.
• Increased activity. Williams indicates that people who keep off lost pounds report very high levels of activity—burning about 2,800 calories a week.
• Use of behavior modification tools. “Keeping a food diary, working out with friends, and engaging in active hobbies are all ways to support one’s weight management program,” adds Williams.

Let the staff of Baptist Family Fitness help you keep those healthy New Year’s resolutions! Certified exercise specialists will work one-on-one with you to develop an exercise plan tailored to your specific needs. Members receive a free, individualized fitness assessment and enjoy the assistance of personal trainers. There are also a variety of healthy and fun classes, such as aerobics, kickboxing, and yoga, along with the latest exercise equipment, including treadmills, cycles, and Stairmasters. Special programs, such as Fit Pregnancy for expecting moms, and an Arthritis Aquatics Foundation class are also available. If you’re looking to make 2004 healthy for you and yours, make sure a membership to Baptist Family Fitness is on your holiday wish list.