THE new year is a time when resolutions are made by about 50% of the population, who will plan to quit smoking, lose weight, get fit and revitalise their lifestyle.

Unfortunately within a few weeks over 90% of people will begin to break them. It is far too easy to retain the status quo and do nothing!

As with any mature person, a "support group" with varied interests will help you to revitalise your health and lifestyle. However, it begins with generating the desire to be active with like-minded, energetic people.

It is not the time to be around those who would rather sit and watch TV 24/7. This is in itself a challenge for all age groups, so it is important to have a sense of purpose. This begins with how you think about things that are important to your well-being and applying understanding

to help to achieve what

is necessary to be a vibrant and productive person.

The festive period is the opportunity to connect socially, creatively and spiritually and whilst doing so, did you fit in your basic weight training exercise routine beginning with 3kg weights, walking briskly and re-discovering the fitness benefits of the exercise bike?

The suggested sequence could be (and your gym professional could help to guide you further):

• Stretch first.
• Weight session next.
• Squats next (essential for helping to remove toxins).
• Finish off with some fun on the exercise bike.

- Dr Alex McHarg PhD