Weight goes on easily but losing it is hard, which is why a lot of people give up. Placing unrealistic expectations on ourselves in the form of New Year’s resolutions only leads to disappointment. This year, as the clock counts down, close your eyes and make a promise that you’ll actually keep. Here are a few tips.

1. Schedule a minimum of three fitness sessions per week.
Getting into regular activity is important. The Department of Health recommends that adults do 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week.

2. Make your social events active.
You’ll be less likely to ditch going for a power walk if you know a friend’s waiting. Don’t have a negative perception of exercise, take it as a social event.

3. Motivate yourself with gadgets.
Another fitness trick is to wear a pedometer to count the number of steps you take in a day. Healthy, active adults take around 10000 steps per day. Bump up your tally by taking the stairs instead of the lift and leaving your car at home. An uplifting spong on your iPod will help, as music distracts you from fatigue.