Tips for succeeding with your exercise resolutions

Getting in shape is one of the most common New Years' resolutions, and even though many strive to exercise more, some break this resolution within the first few weeks. However, experts give several reasons why this year could be the one you reach your fitness goals.

"The evidence shows that the best thing you can do for your health is being active for half an hour each day and that, if you can do it, you can realize great health benefits," Dr. Mike Evans recently told The Chronicle Herald.

Purchasing a new or used treadmill, elliptical trainer or other exercise equipment for your home is one way to make getting more exercise easy now and throughout the year. However, experts say there are other ways you can meet your fitness goals in 2013.

First of all, setting realistic goals is important. Instead of saying you want to get back to your high school weight, try aiming for an initial weight loss of 10 pounds. After you reach the initial goal, you can raise the bar.

Finding a form of exercise that you enjoy will also help you stick with it. It may be running, walking, bicycling or swimming. You may also want to try a new class at your local gym or community center such as Zumba, spinning, Pilates or yoga to find your ideal activity. Or, borrow some fitness DVDs from your local library to find the one that will keep you coming back for more.

Exercising with a friend may also help. After all, if there's someone depending on you to get up and meet them at the track, you'll be less likely to stay on the couch!

Purchasing used fitness equipment for the home will also help make reaching your exercise goals more affordable. According to the Business Insider, Bloomberg news estimated that getting in shape can cost as much as $7,979 a year. So, skip the expensive gym membership and personal trainer and opt for gear that will make it easier for you to be successful in becoming more active.

Besides exercise equipment, there are many smartphone applications and websites that make tracking your fitness goals easy. The publication suggests trying iMapMyRun or Endomondo Sports Tracker.