It’s time to get back to the basics of exercise! New Year’s is long past and resolutions are long forgotten. But it’s not too late to find the workout that fits your lifestyle.

I’ve heard a lot of talk about how friends and gym members just can’t stick to a routine. There are plenty of obstacles to overcome when you’re planning for fitness. First, let’s cover the very basics of exercise and what you really need to get started on a realistic program.

Set realistic goals

Every successful exercise program begins with setting realistic goals. Your routine will vary greatly according to your goals. Some goals may be general – such as weight loss, strength gains and cardiovascular fitness. Other goals may be more specific, such as training for an endurance event or other athletic competition. Whatever your goals, make sure they are attainable. Have your friends and family help you write your goals; chances are, they will be more realistic and forgiving than you.

Do your homework

Now that you have a direction in which to move, the next step is to gain the knowledge to achieve these goals. Knowledge is one of the biggest obstacles in making profitable fitness gains.

Time restraints are another obstacle. To make the most of your workout time, do the research to make each workout count. The resources available are endless: You can access information specific to your exercise goals on the Internet, in magazines or from good old-fashioned books. Your local gym should also have personal trainers and other fitness experts available to help you reach your goals. Just keep in mind you will pay for these services.

Whatever method of learning you choose, it will greatly benefit you to spend a little extra time researching your particular workout goals.

Create motivation

And, finally, we come to the most difficult part of getting into the exercise habit: Motivation! Of course, it’s easier to crawl back into bed or flick on the television when you look outside at the snow and slush of a western Pennsylvania March. Hibernating indoors seems so much more pleasant – not to mention a lot easier – than getting outside for a walk or run.

It has been my experience – and there is research to support it – that those who have a workout partner also have a higher success rate when it comes to exercise habits and goals. Grab your spouse or a friend and get motivated!

Plan your workouts a week in advance. Set specific times to meet and hold each other accountable for meeting on time. You will find your workouts will be much more enjoyable and productive with a partner. Encourage each other to get moving and keep moving!

Now you have the basics to begin a realistic exercise routine. Throw out your old resolutions and start fresh; don’t wait for summer. Grab a pencil and call a friend. You’re on your way to exercise success!

Tara Jones is a nationally certified personal trainer through American Fitness and Aerobics Association; and a yoga, Pilates and group exercise instructor and wellness coordinator at Grove City YMCA. She is a health and physical education major at Slippery Rock University. She writes the Fit for Thought column every other Saturday for Allied News.