So we’ve all overindulged at Christmas, and we’ve all promised ourselves a “new year, new me”. Hopefully that’s going well, but we all know the real challenge isn’t making resolutions — it’s sticking to them long term.

Nothing can replace a well-planned exercise and diet regime, but small lifestyle changes can support it. Here are six of the most effective.

1. Rearrange Your Fridge and Cupboards

It may seem a strange suggestion, but you’re more likely to reach for the foods you notice first. If you make sure these are items like vegetables, salad or probiotic yoghurts, your snacking habits should improve. You might still have less-healthy food — but make it harder to find.

2. Take Regular Short Walks

Even with a tight schedule, taking a brisk, ten-minute walk in your break can work wonders. It’s ideal, of course, to walk or cycle to work, the supermarket or the gym, but if you do drive, park on the far side of the car park to give yourself a brief walk. If this involves stairs, so much the better.

3. Order Your Fruit and Vegetables from an Organic Supplier

Several companies deliver fresh fruit and vegetables weekly, so you won’t have the excuse of not having time for shopping. Since these are fresh and organic, they’re not only far healthier than the supermarket alternatives, they also taste better, making healthy eating a pleasure rather than a chore.

4. Five Minutes’ Gentle Exercise Before Bed

Getting a good night’s sleep makes all the difference to your energy and fitness during the day. A short session of gentle exercise, such as yoga, can help make sure you not only sleep deeper, but also feel far more in tune with your body.

5. Read Nutritional Labels

If you’re not using fresh ingredients, it can be hard to be sure about what you’re putting into your body. Taking a few moments to read the labels on any package, jar or tin you buy will put you in charge of your nutrition.

6. Drink More Water

This should be a no-brainer for anyone serious about exercising, but a few simple steps can make it easier and more effective to drink enough water. Investing in a filter will ensure the water’s healthier, while a good water bottle is easier to carry around with you.

Of course, the big change you can make, if you haven’t already, is to enroll in a good gym that will offer expert advice and support. We’d love you to get in touch with us.