Video: Keeping Your Weight Loss Resolution in 2014
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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI) – Year after year, millions of people start the new year with resolutions to get in shape. Yet research shows that only a small percentage of people can keep them throughout the year.
Termeka Brooks says losing nearly 40 pounds was challenging but she isn’t alone on her weight loss journey. She exercises at the YMCA with her long-time friends, sisters Perlisha and Rene Graham. They’ve lost a combined 154 pounds in 2013.
“We encourage each other so when one says they’re not coming, we push each other and we motivate each other until we get there,” says Perlisha Graham, who lost 47 lbs last year.
Researchers at the University of Scranton say just 8% of those who make resolutions actually keep them. Why can some achieve their goals and others don’t? Brooks says her kids help her keep the weight off.
“It was just time for a change. It was time for me to do better with my health and I have small children that I want to be around a long time to see grow up,” says Brooks.
They started out on the treadmill, moved up to the elliptical machine and are now taking a cross-fitness class. Brooks says dedication has been the key.
“I’m going to do this. I’m going to go full force and I’m going to trust God to help me with this. I’m going to make it happen so I started coming to the Y five days a week, Monday through Friday. Get up at 4:30 in the morning,” says Brooks.
The YMCA hosts an expo to explain the services and classes available, which include aquatics, spinning and youth activities.
“We’re rolling out the red carpet for folks so they can come on in and see that we are much more than a gym and that we are a huge family,” says Melissa Parsons, staff member at Columbus YMCA.
Experts say if you want to lose weight, start by setting reasonable goals. Find a partner if you need to and most importantly, believe that you can do it.
For more information about the YMCA, call 662) 328-7696.
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