The start of a new year means new lofty resolutions. In this game, the resolution to increase physical activity wins the Palme d'Or of the most universally acclaimed resolution. Willingness to change and getting started are different things and succeeding in the long-term is another. Of course, your motivation is to lose a few pounds, to keep your body from becoming ‘rusty’. Do it seriously and avoid stupid and drastic resolutions like 200 sit-ups and jogging for an hour and a half every day.

Here’s how to know your limits and keep your fitness resolutions for more than two days: Grab a work out buddy Whether you need someone stronger to pull you up or a little weaker to boost your self esteem, the choice of partners remains crucial. Find the correct balance and avoid the judging or condescending friends, or who can cancel swimming session because they forgot waxing (yes, anticipate such eventualities!).

Activity in less than 30 minutes A Danish scientific study published in September 2012 concluded that 30 min of exercise is as good, if not better, than a strenuous hour’s workout. So here’s a chance to include a fitness regimen in our busy lifestyle. Listen to what Ciru, 36, a sporty engineer and client of Power Vibe Studio, had to say: "I loved sport, I wanted to do everything and test everything, I tried zumba, kickboxing, aikido, swimming, Capoeira etc. but because of work constraints, the only ones I still carry out today are those taking less than 40 min in my schedule (my Power Plate session at lunch break) or walking/jogging back to the house in the evening.”

Find the activity that fits you There’s plenty of choice in Nairobi: team sport, outdoors, indoors, at home or away but if you are hesitant, the solution is as simple as trying! Explore gyms that offer free test classes. Adore your battle outfit Comfortable, sexy or possibly both, carefully select your workout outfit. Be proud of its sporting look! Look both fashionable and practical, to be more motivated than ever! Learn to discover the who, what, when, where and how that will motivate you. BUT, be careful. Once your reluctance of exercising disappears, beware it can become a real addiction to be consumed without moderation!