The secret to keeping those healthy New Year resolutions is to maintain some perspective in expectations, and make small, realistic changes. Thinking success means food deprivation and expecting immediate results can lead to disappointment. Janet Purath, assistant professor at the WSU Intercollegiate College of Nursing, says most people resolving to exercise stay on track for only two months. Keep in mind it takes time and commitment to successfully keep resolutions and change behaviors.
Purath suggests focusing on activity rather than weight loss. Promising to attend the gym each day may not be realistic. Instead, try promising to walk briskly for at least 10 minutes each day. Thirty minutes of moderate physical activity per day is enough to notice a difference in your health this year. Since flexibility is key, try breaking these 30 minutes down into three 10-minute segments of activity. Making a small change and firmly incorporating it into a daily routine can increase chances of success.
For assistance in reaching Purath, jpurath@wsu.edu, contact Susan Nielsen, College of Nursing marketing and communications manager, at 509.991.9151, susann@wsu.edu.
