According to one survey of 12, 000 people, about 30 percent of those New Year’s resolutions say they don’t even keep them into February. And only about 1 in 5 actually stays on track for six months or more, reports eDiets, com, a consumer diet and fitness Web site. But don’t let those odds make you reach for the nearest bag of potato chips. Experts say you can keep those resolutions long term, even if you’re struggling now. "The motivation comes from within, and so when you find that you’re declining in your healthy eating program, and then just ask yourself, ’Is this going to get me the results that I want’" says Leslie Stewart, a registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist. "And if you’re doing something every day to eat healthy, then that’s going to pay off in the long run." Stewart advises to use what she calls the 90 -10 eating rule. "If you’re eating healthy 90 percent of the time, then 10 percent of the time, you can cut yourself some slack and eat pleasurably." She says she believes that "healthy eating is evolution instead of resolution." The same principle can be applied to a lagging exercise resolution, too. Staying motivated is key to long-term success, and reviewing original goals can help strengthen a weakening workout program. Adding variety to a fitness regime also can pr you from hanging up those exercise shoes. After a few weeks of well-intentioned workouts, boredom may be creeping into your routine. Setting goals too high is another common mistake, "If you’re not running a marathon at the end of the month, don’t worry," said Mayo Clinic experts. A too intense workout—and the resulting pain and stiffness—is discouraging and may force most to abandon a program. Starting slowly is key. But if your goals already have fallen by the wayside, Uria says to start up again immediately. "A little setback is OK; get back on the horse and ride... drive toward that goal," he says. |