How many of us break that New Year’s resolution before we turn the page on the calendar? According to data gathered by howstuffworks.com, 35 per cent of those who make resolutions give up on them by the end of January. And just 23 per cent of all who make a resolution see it through to completion – things like quitting smoking, losing weight and paying off credit cards top such lists.
While experts agree many of us over-commit or are too zealous with our aspirations, it doesn’t stop us from trying, and it’s the motivation, commitment and accountability that can mean the difference between success and just another failed resolution.
If fitness is your goal, for example, maybe a kinder, gentler approach is the way to go? Wellness Within at The Enjoy Centre offers a full slate of weekly classes, from basic, beginner-friendly hatha yoga to core yoga strength building, zumba, and pre and post-natal and children’s classes.
Local owners Caroline and Michael Riske have taken over the space in the lower level of The Enjoy Centre and want to make it affordable for anyone to try the popular exercise. An ongoing $49 per month promotion (with a six-month contract) gives unlimited access to all classes.
“Yoga can be a less intimidating workout, plus it addresses both body and mind,” said Caroline. “It’s meditative too, so it lends itself to greater body awareness.”
In the quest for weight loss or stop-smoking goals, many look to herbal supplements, cleanses and kits. At Sangster’s Health Centre, January is indeed a busy time, and store owner Ray Harris said there is high demand for everything from detox programs – 3 to 30 days worth – to stop-smoking kits.
“People also want to eat better in the new year – more fruits and vegetables – we’ve got powdered concentrates and essences, drinks that provide nutrition and vitamins, and act as a pick-me-up,” said Harris.
The health store also has sought-after weight loss aids, like the much-hyped Garcinia Cambogia, a supplement which is said to help curb appetite. “It’s as old as the hills, but has remained popular in health food stores for years,” said Harris.
Mobile Fitness is helping clients meet goals of better health with a busy slate of mat and apparatus Pilates classes, plus the popular TRX suspension machine, which uses body resistance to build strength. Co-owner Fiona Hermanutz said most people have reasonable goals for health and wellness, realizing that fitness is one stepping stone toward the goal of a redefined, strong body.
“But exercise alone won’t do it. Nutrition is, of course, a huge component for weight loss,” said Hermanutz, who with her trained staff, leads day and evening classes at the Rowland Crescent studio.
Mobile Fitness works with all fitness abilities, including those just starting out with an exercise program, or dealing with mobility issues.
Whether it’s a baby step – checking out a class you’ve always meant to try – or a plan of action to kick a bad habit, don’t worry about the date on the calendar. Every day is a new beginning, and a chance to be a new you.
