mmg.com.au

New Year’s resolutions have a failure rate of about 88 per cent.

However, that statistic should not stop people wanting to increase their fitness, quit smoking or travel this year.

Aquamoves centre manager Lindy Baldi said aquatic and gymnasium memberships at the fitness facility usually increased from January to March.

Ms Baldi said the centre supported new members to try and ensure their fitness resolution did not become temporary.

‘‘If they come three times a week or more during those first eight weeks and they are supported ... it becomes a lifestyle change, rather than an idea and trend at the time,’’ she said.

‘‘It’s a lifestyle change. It’s not about looking good for a short time, losing a bit of weight and having a short-term goal.’’

Quit Victoria spokesman Luke Atkin said 44 people in Greater Shepparton died from tobacco-related illnesses in 2010.

Mr Atkin said people wanting to quit smoking should use the first two weeks of the new year to prepare to achieve their resolution.

‘‘Don’t try and quit while you’re on holidays or partying,’’ he said.

‘‘Do it a couple of weeks into the new year when you’re back at work and back into a routine.’’

Mr Atkin said people should not feel upset if their resolution to quit smoking failed.

‘‘Many people don’t quit for good the first time they try to quit,’’ he said.

‘‘It’s quite normal to have multiple quit attempts, so people shouldn’t feel disheartened if they don’t quit the first time.’’

Mooroopna travel agent Lyn McNaught said the new year was her busiest time with people organising holidays.

‘‘Whether or not they are New Year’s resolutions, I don’t know,’’ she said.

‘‘Once Christmas is over, people start thinking about their holidays for the next year.

‘‘Winter is the busiest time for holidays, of course, because people want to escape (the cold weather).’’

Research shows about 50 per cent of Australians make a New Year’s resolution and forming a new habit takes an average of 66 days.

People wanting to quit smoking can phone Quitline on 137848.