New Year’s Resolutions That Last: YMCA Experts Share Tips on Fitness, Water Safety and Healthy Habits
ROANOKE, Va. (Dec. 17, 2025) — As Americans reset routines in the New Year, experts say the key to lasting resolutions is starting early, keeping goals realistic and building habits that extend well beyond January. Leaders from the YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge are available to speak on how individuals and families can approach fitness, water safety and nutrition in ways that are sustainable year-round.
For those focused on fitness, consistency matters more than intensity, said Betty Bridges, wellness director at the Kirk Family YMCA.
“Start small and commit to something you can do every day, even if it’s just 10 minutes,” Bridges said. “Those small, consistent efforts are what turn resolutions into long-term habits.”
She also encourages people to treat exercise like an appointment.“When workouts are scheduled at the same time each week, they become part of a routine instead of a daily decision,” Bridges said. “Choosing activities you actually enjoy also makes a big difference in whether you stick with it.”
Water safety is another area where early planning can save lives, said Matt Reedy, aquatics director at the Botetourt Family YMCA. He said winter is an ideal time for families to begin swim lessons, particularly as drowning remains a leading cause of accidental death among children.
“Swimming is the only sport proven to save a child’s life,” Reedy said. “Children who participate in swim lessons are significantly less likely to experience a drowning.”
Reedy noted that swimming is a complex skill that requires time to develop. “It often takes three to six months, or longer, for children to build coordination, breath control and confidence in the water,” he said. “Starting lessons in winter or early spring gives families time to prepare before summer.”
Healthy eating goals also benefit from a realistic approach, said Jonathan Pait, branch executive director at YMCA Express at Gainsboro.
“Sustainable nutrition starts with reducing stress around meals,” Pait said. “Identify a short list of healthy meals your family already enjoys and rotate them regularly. That keeps planning simple and momentum going.”
Pait also recommends combining convenience with fresh ingredients.
“Using items like pre-cooked proteins or frozen vegetables alongside fresh foods saves time,” he said. “Even small steps, like growing herbs or greens at home, can encourage healthier choices throughout the year.”
YMCA leaders say these approaches share a common theme: progress comes from habits that fit into daily life, not quick fixes tied to the calendar.
Schedule an Interview:
Interviews with YMCA of Virginia’s Blue Ridge experts are available upon request. Reporters interested in speaking with Betty Bridges (wellness), Matt Reedy (aquatics and water safety), or Jonathan Pait (healthy eating and family nutrition) may contact Ceci Leonard, [email protected], 540 357 2500, to schedule one-on-one interviews, live segments or background conversations to support New Year’s resolution coverage. Our team can also provide broll or and visual media assets upon request.