Keep it realistic

Pssst. Want to know the secret to keeping your fitness resolutions in 2013? Exercise reasonable goal setting. Mike Wasik, M.Ed., A.T.C./L., C.S.C.S., L.M.T., a Shands Fitness and Wellness Center clinical coordinator, recommends sticking to goals that are S.M.A.R.T.: specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound. For instance, you can gradually ease back into your fitness routine after the indulgent holiday season by exercising three times a day for 10 minutes at a time. A brisk walk can even suffice for a small workout for the day. Wasik adds that better overall health should be the top priority when resolving to get fit. And you don’t have to break the bank to hit the gym. The Shands Fitness and Wellness Center is offering gym memberships for as low as $9.99 a month for those who visit the gym 12 or more times a month. Experienced trainers are always on site, and memberships are open to anyone in the community. The fitness center is located in the first-floor retail area of the Shands Cancer Hospital parking garage on Southwest 13th Street. For more information, please visit fitness.ufandshands.org or call 352-733-0834.