THE Observer has teamed up with Inspired Slough to offer readers the opportunity to participate in sports events as the borough of Slough lives in the legacy of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“THE beginning of a New Year will see scores of people making resolutions to get fit and healthy in 2014.

With next week being the time when many abandon their plans, by changing your mindset and following some top tips, success can be achieved.

If you’re someone who has not really done much exercise in the past don’t jump straight in and hit the gym every night of the week. Not only will you start to resent the cross trainer, but you could also cause an injury. Start by going once or twice a week then gradually build it up as your fitness level improves.

For some, spending hours on a treadmill is not enjoyable so work out a schedule to mix up activities. You don’t just have to hit the Absolutely Fitness gym at Slough Trading Estate. Why not also use the recently refurbished swimming pool at Montem Leisure Centre, or hire out a badminton court at Herschel Sports Centre?

This will help you to keep interested in your fitness plan and also allow you to work on many different parts of the body. Getting fit with a friend, colleague or family member can be a good idea as you can motivate each other when one of you is lagging.

If your fitness plan involves joining Simply Walks for Health at Langley Park or riding along the cycle path next to Jubilee river, having a friend for company can be a good idea.

With any change in lifestyle there will be some bad days so expect a setback. By realising that sometimes you will lack the motivation or won’t be able to run as far as you would have liked, will help to ensure that you don’t beat yourself up for ‘failing’ and keep your new healthy lifestyle regime going.

Finally, don’t over scrutinize yourself. Jumping on the scales every day to see if you’ve lost weight or trying to run further every time will only lead to disappointment.

Set times when you will analyse your progress and change things around if need be.

Whatever your fitness plan for 2014, staff across all Slough Community Leisure venues are happy to give advice and help you every step of the way to ensure you meet your goals.”