There are three main ways you keep your resolution to become more fit and lose weight, according to fitness and nutrition expert Sheree Mull. She recommends that first you evaluate yourself, second, you stay consistent, and third, you find support to help you perservere.

So, first things first. Let’s do an evaluation. Mull suggests you ask yourself these questions, write down your answers, and reflect on them:

· Why do I want to start exercising?

· What are my goals?

· How am I going to achieve my personal goals?

· How disciplined am I? 

· Do I need the accountability and instructions from an outside source? 

· What types of activity do I enjoy? 

· Is this an activity that I can get my heart rate high enough to burn fat?

· Can I do this activity at least three times a week?

· Who can I get to exercise with me?

  Once you have finished your evaluation, start looking around for a fitness center, or if you are an especially good self-motivator, start looking in to exercise equipment. However, support is built in at the fitness centers.

"Many people have the exercise equipment at home that is collecting dust and used to hang clothes on," she said. "That’s because it’s just not near as fun working out by yourself. Exercising at home can make you feel isolated in the process of making your lifestyle change. That’s why I feel that it is extremely important to be a part of a fitness center. But not just any fitness center."

"It is very important to find a fitness facility where you feel comfortable," she said. "You must enjoy the atmosphere, the support, the instruction and the workout. The facility must be convenient for you to get to.

A commitment to a facility can sometimes help keep you committed to your fitness routine.

"The accountability and support that an exercise facility can provide can prevent early frustration and burnout," she explained.

Another key to successful lifestyle change is keeping your exercising fun. Try new activities such as bowling, roller skating, roller blading, swimming or sledding. Try alternative exercises such as yoga, Pilates or Tai-Bo.

It can also be more fun if you have a workout partner. Walking can be much more enjoyable if you have someone to talk to. Another suggestion is to take advantage of the state parks and your community’s parks. Many of them have walking paths that offer pleasant scenery.

While your activities can vary widely, the pattern of exercise should not.

"Consistency to a fitness program is extremely important," she said. "People must be consistent and patient with their workouts in order to see the maximum results. I recommend a program that combines strength training and cardio for 30 minutes

keeping the heart rate at 60-80 percent maximum heart rate for three times a week."

 The final tip is patience.

"People notice their results at different times," she said. "It depends on their genetics, their exercise history, how overweight they are and how out of shape they may be. It also depends on what type of exercise they are doing, as well as how often they are doing the exercise. It may be as long as six weeks before they notice a difference."