Expert: How to Keep Your Fitness Resolution in '07

Dec. 30, 2006 — -- After the ball drops on New Year's Eve and the champagne stops flowing, another American tradition will be just getting started -- the New Year's resolution.

Almost half of all American adults will make a resolution this year, and by far the most popular resolution is to lose weight.

If you're planning to hit the gym or start a diet after the clock strikes midnight this Sunday, Nicki D'Atellis, a nutrition expert and private trainer at New York's Reebok Sports Club, said it's important to do it the right way.

Q: What's the biggest mistake people make when they start working out?

A: I believe that most people do more than they should and then they end up injuring themselves. Then they can't do it, they can't go on, and that's why most resolutions fail.

Q: What are the most important things to remember when getting started?

A: First, ease into it so it doesn't feel like you're depriving yourself of anything. Don't do anything drastic. Do things in a way that is balanced. Instead of killing yourself, just go in, and that day, if you feel really energetic, do what you would normally do. If you're not feeling it, lay off a bit. Listen to your body.

Nutritionally speaking, make sure you're eating breakfast. Eat fruit and fiber first thing in the morning. Those will keep you satiated. You're not going to feel as hungry, especially if you have fruit in the mornings because then your sugar cravings won't really be there.

Q: What should people do to make sure they're getting the most out of their workouts?

A: Make sure you do cardio -- 30-45 minutes of whatever sport or exercise you like. Then, target the largest muscle groups. For your back, do some pull-downs or the rowing machine. For the chest, some presses and flies. Those are the major muscle groups. And remember, when you work your back, you're working your biceps automatically; when you work your chest, you automatically get your triceps; when you work your legs, you're working your butt most of the time. Don't worry about the little details just yet -- just try to get your body going, and then fine tune.