SOMETHING like 75 per cent of us will have made a New Year's Resolution involving health and fitness in the last few weeks but right now one of the reasons that may have contributed to letting it slip is the financial climate.

However, the good news is that you don't have to join an expensive gym to get fit.

Running is one of England's fastest growing sports and can be virtually free.

You just need a good pair of trainers and you can be off.

Although it can be free you do need bags of determination which may not come naturally.

So, how can you get started?

I suggest there are four points to consider when making fitness part of your New Year's Resolution.

The first is to find something that really will make a difference to your life, something that really matters to you.

You need to 'own' the goal – make it personal.

Next, produce a programme of how you will reach your goal.

Include small steps so you can see some progress. Thirdly, ensure the 'steps' are just out of reach but not out of touch.

That is to say don't make them too easy or too hard – goals need to be achievable but you do have to work for them.

Finally, think of a way to motivate yourself so you keep on track. 'Death of a diet day' is the day in January that historically most people give up their New Year's Resolutions.

Rewards such as: book a massage for three weeks into your programme, buy yourself a new outfit or book a special night out.

Basically, reward yourself along the way.

In due course the very fact that you have stuck to the programme will bring the real rewards.

If you struggle to get motivated why not come along to SE Fitness and start with one of our absolute beginner running or walking groups.

All our groups are carefully matched to a realistic pace and ability and its members can provide invaluable support and motivation to each other.

Many people are surprised how quickly they find themselves moving up the fitness scale and before long use our special programmes to achieve goals such as completing a first 5km, or the 7 pools Cross Country in March, the Lichfield half marathon in May or the Great Midlands Fun Run in June.

For more information go to www.sefitness.com or ring Sally on 07788 628755.