Get back on track with FREE induction and taster sessions at local fitness suites...

IT'S the classic story of a New Year's resolution. How many of us promised ourselves that this is the year to get fit, lose weight and lead an altogether healthier lifestyle?

You've abandoned the takeaways, packed in smoking, cleared the cupboards of sinful chocolate and crisps and replaced them with endless amounts of fruit and vegetables in amounts beyond human consumption.

In true British style, hundreds of people chose 2005 as the one to break the couch potato habit and get themselves into the gym.

In their droves people signed up and took to the treadmills with gusto, determined to turn their lives around.

But typically for more than one in five of those people, the mental enthusiasm waned and they have given up completely - and we're only just in March!

The figures, comparing cities across the country, also reveal how 61 per cent of people will manage to retain their membership for one year at least, mainly using the health and fitness centres on an average of three times a week.

But taking the plunge and starting a new fitness regime is a complete change of lifestyle - and is something that must be done gradually if you want to keep it up.

Now the Daily Echo, in conjunction with Southampton City Council, is offering readers the chance to get back on track, or take the first step to a healthier lifestyle, with free induction and gym taster sessions.

The sessions, worth £15 each, will be carried out with a trained instructor who will show you how to use all the fitness machines as well as tell you just what steps you should take to get in shape and what goals are achievable for you.

And it's easy to take up the offer which is valid for The Quays complex, St Mary's Leisure Centre, Bitterne Leisure Centre and Chamberlayne Leisure Centre - all you have to do is pick up the phone and book your slot.

Niki McPhail, health and fitness manager of Southampton's Quays swimming and diving complex, said: "After the Christmas season many people decided that this year was the year that they planned to get their mental and physical balance right for them. In truth, the mental enthusiasm goes first because they don't get the quick and easy results many health chains and magazines/diets promise.

"To ensure steady progressions and to see results you have to be realistic with your goals, have a way of measuring them and get help and motivation from friends as well as fitness professionals.

"Now is the time to get back on track and give it another go."

FREE FITNESS SUTE INDUCTION SESSIONS:

COME along to one of the fitness suites in the city and let us help you on your way to a healthier new you!

At any of the following venues you can book yourself on a free fitness suite induction saving up to £15 and giving you the opportunity to use the fantastic equipment available (fee charged).

St Mary's Leisure Centre - 023 8022 7579

Quays Eddie Read Swimming and Diving Complex - 023 8072 0900

Bitterne Leisure Centre - 023 8043 7647

Chamberlayne Leisure Centre - 023 8043 7668

Our gyms are fitted with up to date life fitness equipment and our friendly, qualified staff are available to ensure you get the best out of your workout.

Book either in person at any of the venues or telephone the venue direct.

Booking is essential. Spaces are limited. Terms and conditions apply.

Offer closes March 22 2005.