Want to change the habits of a lifetime? If you've got the will, we've got the way - take on the fitness challenge right here.

Making a New Year resolution to get fit is all very well - if you have self-control and a will of iron - but, for most of us, it can be an uphill struggle just to shed the extra pounds that we've gained over Christmas. Let alone achieve that svelte shape and those toned triceps that we long for!

"But take heart and you'll find that where there's a will (even if it's not the 'iron' will that you'd like) there is most definitely a way - and it's right here in Bedfordshire."

Joining a gym is a big decision - not least because you may already have 'been there, done that' but failed, in the long run, to get the t-shirt.

One of the biggest reasons for people not achieving their goals is lack of time and motivation, and once you are out of the habit it's even harder to get back in. But don't worry, you might not have been there for months but the gym hasn't gone away. And once you have overcome the first hurdle of arriving, the rest will follow.

At many of our local gyms an exercise professional will design a programme with you and your lifestyle in mind; if you only have 30 minutes to spare, your programme will reflect that. You would be amazed at the results of a power workout at just 30 minutes, three times a week. Now, that is achievable - and just think of the health benefits you'll derive from it!

Swimming, as every little fish knows, is good for you. Once upon a time, long before i-pods, i-pads and i-phones our scaly ancestors spent their days splashing around in the great primeval oceans that covered Bedfordshire. So it comes as no great surprise that swimming is an activity that still exercises almost every muscle in our humanoid bodies - and, let's face it, it's fun!

Along with the state-of-the art exercise equipment at many gyms, some memberships even offer unlimited use of the pool whether it's for a focused, aqua work-out or just a gentle, relaxing, after-training session dip.

The long road back to fitness can sometimes make for a lonely journey. But it doesn't have to be a solo adventure. Group exercise classes are an excellent way to lose weight while you tone your muscles but they can also be a great way to make new friends! Why not take a look at what's on offer and the range of classes available at your lcoal gym, from Aerobics to Zumba, at times that will suit you.

There are even professionally-staffed creche facilities available so you can exercise, happy in the knowledge that your little ones are being looked after.

Working out really can be a time to play!

The 2012 Olympics are little more than a year away. University of Bedfordshire students will be acting as volunteers throughout both the Olympic and Paralympic Games but sport is most definitely for all. (Team Beds&Luton) have their finger on the pulse of activities that are taking place at times and in places to suit you throughout the county.

And you don't have to be a Paula Radcliffe or an Alastair Cook to join in. Indoor or outdoor, there's sport for all in Bedfordshire.

Team games and organised club meetings are a great way to get fit and socialise at the same time but there's one leisure pursuit that can be enjoyed anywhere, with no specific equipment and, unlike some exercise, it requires no special agility. Walking is simple, cheap and so very good for you. And in Bedfordshire, we are lucky to have a vast network of public footpaths and rights of way along which to walk while enjoying the countryside around us.

But if you want to up the pace, we've got all the information you need to help you start jogging or running to a fitter, more fulfilling future.

Of course, taking control of your body is not just about the speed at which you move it. If you are interested in signing up for Yoga or Pilates classes, you'll find that there are sessions taking place in all corners of the county. As for which practice appeals to you more, both systems build up strength, flexibility, co-ordination and relieve stress, it just depends on your physical goals.

Breathing in fresh air is good for you, no two ways about it. Outdoor pursuits, whether it be a round of golf, sailing, rowing, orienteering, clay-pigeon shooting or discovering the bridle paths of Bedfordshire on horseback, are as good for the spirit as they are for the body. Now that can't be bad, can it?