Want to be stronger, slimmer, faster, leaner? Or perhaps your goal is more subtle but equally as important: healthier heart, enhanced energy, better sleep?

With the decadence of the holidays behind us, January is the perfect time to ramp up our fitness goals.

Sadly though, New Year’s resolutions have become somewhat cliché. We say that we’re going to make a significant change, but too few of us actually follow through.

The main reason for failure? Most resolutions are too broad. It’s nearly impossible to make a single sweeping statement of change, and follow through with it. Typical resolutions such as “I want to lose 50 pounds” or “I want to get six-pack abs” don’t factor in a step-by-step, how-to plan that will guide you to achieve your resolution.

Make your ‘09 New Year’s resolution a success with a few key points:

1. Make Resolutions Realistic

   Make sure your resolution is attainable. For example, if weight loss is your goal, aim to lose one to two pounds weekly. If your plan is to improve your cholesterol profile, give yourself at least three months to see changes.

2. Make Resolutions Meaningful

   If achieving a resolution will add value to your life, you’ll be more motivated to achieve it.

3. Keep Resolutions Specific

   It’s tough to stay focused and determined if your resolution is too vague.

4. Develop a Step-by-Step Guide to Behavioral Change

   Outline specific steps of just how you will reach your goal. Make these steps specific and measurable. This will be your how-to guide in accomplishing your New Year’s resolution.

   Examples include:

   • Add protein to my breakfast
   • Plan ahead to have healthy snacks on hand
   • Take my supplements daily
   • Limit starches at dinner

Consider taking away the emphasis on giving up something ‘bad’, and embrace the idea of adding in something ‘good’. This is where Smoothie King can help you in achieving this year’s resolution.

• Instead of a lackluster breakfast (or no breakfast at all), stop in for a Slim-N-Trim Smoothie. Just say “Make it Skinny” to cut the sugars even further.
• Trade in at least half of your fast-food meals, opting instead for a protein-rich, low-sugar Smoothie like The Shredder or a Low-Carb Smoothie.
• Instead of a candy bar, snack on one of Smoothie King’s protein bars.
• Nix the chips, and crunch on Smoothie King’s Veggie chips or Soy Crisps instead.
• Not getting enough whole grains? Ask for the Fiber Blend Enhancer in your favorite Smoothie.
• Stock up on Smoothie King’s selection of vitamins. Still can’t remember to take them daily? Request the Multi-Vitamin Enhancer in your Smoothie.

To change an old habit, give yourself ample time and plenty of patience. It can take months of practice before a new behavior truly becomes a habit.

Start slowly, and develop a plan you can really live with. Divide your long-range resolution into smaller, manageable steps.

Focus on working toward your resolution each day, planning ahead for challenging situations. Celebrate even the smallest successes along the way.

Believe in yourself - YOU could be Smoothie King’s next success story!

— Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD