PLATTSBURGH — With one month down in 2012, many locals are still working hard to keep their New Year's resolutions.
Clients at Curves for Women are making progress and remain committed to reaching their goals of getting healthy this year, owner Kristen Moore said on Wednesday.
She noticed a spike in business shortly after the beginning of the year, and it seems the trend is growing instead of slowing.
"I can definitely say things picked up," Moore said.
The club is a 30-minute fitness center for women that provides a total body workout aimed at helping them reach their weight-loss, fitness and health goals, she said.
At the end of 2011, the center had 96 memberships, but that number has grown to 168 women.
She said all of them are definitely working hard to keep their resolutions.
"So far, (progress) is steady, and I really do see people sticking to their goals. They are seeing results."
MOTIVATION CRUCIAL
According to a study reported at www.usa.gov, starting that dreaded diet, getting more exercise and finally quitting smoking are among the most common vows Americans make as a new year rolls around.
Moore knows, from experience, that motivation is crucial to keeping up with any goal.
"I lost 80 pounds, and it definitely encouraged me. I now make it my business to motivate other people."
Joan Sterling knows the importance of working out regularly is just one step toward overall health. She also knows just how difficult sticking to a resolution can be.
As regional director for the American Cancer Society of Clinton and Essex counties, she frequently stresses the benefits of quitting smoking, maintaining a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise.
After the arrival of 2012, she did not notice any notable increase in people seeking help from her organization, but that doesn't necessarily mean there aren't smokers trying to quit, she said.
Whether it's the beginning, middle or end of the year, she "hopes people are taking the steps to get healthy every day."
TAKE SMALL STEPS
Sterling doesn't hesitate to admit that she is among the many who are guilty of failing to keep New Year's resolutions.
"(So) this year, I really wanted to make an effort to stop and think about what I wanted to accomplish."
She focuses on taking small steps in her daily life that lend themselves to achieving a bigger goal.
"One of the most important things people can do is to keep it simple and keep things truly attainable," she said.
"Focusing on goals like quitting smoking and getting more exercise are definitely important because they will make your whole life better," she said. "I think it is really important to actively tell yourself that, every day, I am going to make better choices."
STRETCH ZONE
Sandra Gothard, director for Weight Management's Plattsburgh office, saw an increase in clients inquiring about their program after New Year's Day.
"We had clients returning and new clients inquiring," she said.
As does Sterling, Gothard believes remaining committed to change and setting attainable goals offer the best recipe for success.
"Begin with small changes and practice, practice, practice," she added.
She also knows the path to making lifestyle changes is different for everyone.
"There is no simple answer that fits all persons for keeping resolutions," Gothard said. "For our clients, this is about changing eating habits and adopting a means of being more active."
She made a resolution to focus on maintaining her own healthy lifestyle and continuing to learn so she can help others reach their goals.
This will help her achieve her goal and encourage others to "stay within a stretch zone, not a stress zone."
focus the brain
Dr. John Gunstad, associate professor of psychology at Kent State University, says losing weight and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be made easier by keeping the brain focused.
He thinks it is important to consult with a doctor to identify a personal weight-loss plan, use strategies such as planning meals well in advance and setting cellphone alerts to start successfully.
"Some people appear to have a better ability than others to keep themselves on task," Gunstad said. "Fortunately, a little planning can help those of us that have a harder time doing so still achieve our goals."
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