Christmas is nearly here, and before you know it you are counting down to the New Year! Do you have a New Year's Resolution? Do you have the same resolution every year, fail to keep it, and then decide to give it another try year after year? If you are like me, my family and friends, and the majority of these promise-makers, your resolution is almost certainly related to health and fitness.

Any of theses sound familiar? "I promise to eat healthier!" "My New Year's Resolution is to exercise more" and lastly… "I'm definitely going to loose some weight after the New Year's party!"

How many of us REALLY keep to our well-intended promises? Are we really getting healthier every year, or our we once again entering in an empty promise we have every intention in keeping, then a few months in the year when everyone has forgotten those resolutions, you give in to that extra little cake, and take the lift to the second floor. Is this year going to be the same?

You really want to know the solution to the dreaded New Years Resolution? The answer, hard work! I'm afraid you don't have a magic wand, and you don't have 3 wishes. Here are some tips to try to help you succeed in mission to good health and fitness this year. 

1. Everyone has a goal that they never reach, yet assist on yet again making it this year's resolution. NO! You will only continue to fail, which will cause upset and disappointment that you haven't lost that 30 pounds. However, if you have set your heart on this goal, try altering it. Loosing at least a pound every week. That way it's a continuing goal that can be broken down to small goals everyday.

2. Don't go it alone! Get in a professional! Everyone needs a little assistance now and again, and a friend is not always the best idea. A trained professional is not only safer, as it will prevent injury, or unnecessary strain on your body, especially if you are a stranger to the gym! Its obvious, but hours of research has gone into telling you you're more likely to succeed in fitness training with a professional! Well, there you go!

3. Its time for goal setting. By thinking your neglected body is going to be in super model condition by July is ridiculous let alone unrealistic! However, promising to include a standard amount of physical activity everyday is realistic, and will improve your fitness, as well as your appearance!

4. Plan your mission. Sit down in January, and do what all successful businesses do and write a plan, describe your mission, and how you will achieve it. Make it personal, you're more likely to take it unbound!

5. That LARGE goal you set in January can suddenly seem a little intimidating mid week, how on earth can you achieve this!? Don't panic; break that LARGE goal into small, bite size goals that you can achieve daily, weekly or even monthly. All theses smaller goals should wok towards your ultimate goal at the end of the year.

6. Reward yourself with each small goal you successfully achieve and your more likely to continue towards your ultimate goal. HOWEVER, this doesn't mean you can eat a large chocolate cake because you have eaten carrot sticks instead of chocolate biscuits. Make sure you don't undo the good work you have achieved. How about trying a professional massage?

7. It's what they are here for! Friends and family members will be more than happy to help you reach your goals.  Remember they should be there to help not hinder, make sure it stays a friendly word of advice rather than a bossy phone call first thing in the morning.

8. Limit your number of promises. You'll spread yourself too thin trying to make multiple changes in your life. This will just lead to failure of all of the resolutions.

Good Luck!