5 great tips for keeping your New Year's fitness resolutions

These five tips will help you plan for success with your fitness resolutions and make it easier to stick to them once you've gained momentum.

Making a New Year's resolution is a lot easier than sticking to it if you don't prepare in advance. As the old adage goes, "When you fail to plan, you plan to fail." These five tips will help you plan for success with your fitness resolutions and make it easier to stick to them once you've gained momentum.

Before January 1st, write down each of your fitness goals and create a written workout schedule in a notebook, spreadsheet or calendar. A tangible schedule with a list of fitness goals keeps you focused and on track when you're wavering. Look over these goals every day, even on days when you're not scheduled to work out. It's also helpful to break down your large goals into smaller ones. This approach can prevent you from becoming overwhelmed by the larger goals which may seem unattainable today.

Keep track of your progress each week or even after every workout. Documenting your progression will inspire you when you feel bored or simply want to skip your workout. For example, write down every time you graduate to a heavier weight or more reps so you can look back to see how far you've come.

So many people give up on themselves and flush their New Year's resolutions down the toilet if they don't see enough progress right away. If you have a minor setback, the best thing you can do is continue working towards your goals, even if you must take baby steps at times. For instance, if you fail to get up early for your morning workout, take a brisk walk at lunch or do some light yoga before bed.

Every time you reach a new milestone along the path to your larger fitness goals, go ahead and celebrate. Each small celebration keeps you feeling positive and motivated. Buy a new piece of workout clothing, get a massage or simply indulge in a leisurely bubble bath while your spouse entertains the kids.

Find someone who isn't afraid to kick your butt when it needs to be kicked. Whether you choose your spouse, friend or family member, make sure you pick someone who will actually hold you accountable if you're tempted to stray.

No matter how discouraged or overwhelmed you may feel at times, these five tips can help you find your way back to your fitness goals.