Q I'M going on a dream holiday this summer and have made a New Year's resolution to get into shape. Have you any tips on helping me reach my goal?

A I AM sure a high percentage of resolutions at this time of year are to do with improving our level of fitness. My busiest time is during January, but by Easter, where is everyone?

So often our good intentions are doomed to failure. How can we keep that fitness resolution going through the year?

Unfortunately, with fitness, there is no such thing as a quick fix. You need to give your new regime at least two months to make a difference.

Let's face it, a little bit of exercise on the odd occasion is not going to make a big difference to your health and appearance. You need to set aside some dedicated time each week to devote to yourself and your personal fitness (we all need a bit of 'me' time).

To improve your cardiovascular fitness and burn off some fat, you should work up a sweat and get a bit puffed out for about 20 minutes, three times a week.

You would start to see results if you began walking to work or to school with the kids, or maybe got out on your bike as well.

You will also need to keep an eye on your diet (hate that word). Fewer crisps, biscuits and beers! Lock your scales in the cupboard and don't weigh yourself until two months into your exercise regime. You will be pleasantly surprised. And nothing motivates like success.

If you hate exercise and find it boring, the key is to try to find something you enjoy.

I loathed PE and games at school; my games mistress would never have believed I became a fitness consultant. What changed my attitude was finding an activity I liked.

Try something new. You don't have to slog it out on a treadmill or row yourself silly. To some these are pleasurable activities. But, if you like to hang out with your mates then you should brave it out in an aerobics class where you can have some fun while being coached by a professional instructor.

Gym timetables are full of options these days and the old aerobics classes, where we used to 'go for the burn', are now so much more user-friendly. Don't give up if you don't get on with the first one you try, there are masses of classes in York.

There are always new exercise classes to try. In 2002, look out for core strength classes (sit-ups are rather old hat now) and check out the stability ball in the gym. I've seen stability ball classes in Leeds and London, let's hope we see some in York this year.

The Reebok core classes at Courtney's are still big news as are the mind/body classes that were really popular last year. These focus on giving flexible bodies, stronger stomachs and backs as well as relaxation.

Look out for those fun, dance-style classes too such as balletone, street jazz and Latino aerobics, which are all happening in York.

If your excuse is lack of time, switch off the TV and go to the gym - there's often a telly there too you know!

Life's a party but we're too stressed out to enjoy it. Half an hour, three times a week will do the trick.

Stick at it for a couple or months, get yourself past the six-week psychological barrier and you will find that your fitness time becomes a valuable part of your week. This is a time to relax, forget your worries and look after yourself.

And remember not to overdo it. If you adopt a punishing regime and do too much, too soon, you will exhaust your body and it will be counterproductive.

Be patient. Your body needs time to recover between bouts of exercise in order to make fitness gains. Why would you want to spend two hours doing classes or gym anyway? Or work out seven days a week? Get a life!

Updated: 14:54 Monday, January 14, 2002