The holiday season is coming to a close. Christmas presents have been unwrapped, bellies are chock full of sweets and businesses get back to normal this week.

In the last days of December, people begin to consider New Year’s resolutions for January, which often include forming new exercise plans.

After the fun of Christmas is over, pants may feel a little more snug and the sluggish feeling of a bloated stomach becomes more apparent.

But instead of waiting until January to work off the extra holiday weight, go ahead and get a head start now.

Formulate a new exercise routine as early as Dec. 26, and for those who have had trouble sticking to the routine in years past, start slow and build up to planned goals. This will give one more goals to work toward as February and March roll around, thus increasing one’s chance of continuing the resolution past January.

The earlier one starts, the more of chance one has of sticking to the routine. Before long, what began as a New Year’s resolution will seem more like a permanent lifestyle change.

Also, be patient during the process. Crash dieting and over-exercising may seem like the way to go for fast results, but it can also negatively affect one’s health. When it comes to fitness, slow and steady almost always wins the race.

One should be mindful of his or her amount of food intake, but at the same time, make sure one’s body is receiving the necessary nutrients. Taking care of the body is of utmost importance, and by watching eating habits and exercising safely, the desired end result will come.

Gym membership tends to spike at the turn of the New Year, but then quickly plummets in the months to come as exercisers lose motivation. Don’t let that happen. Start thinking about fitness early this time, set goals and stick to the routine. It’ll be worth it.