Keeping Your New Year’s Resolutions in “The Plus”

Posted by ThePlus - 01.01.2013

Now that the holidays are over and a New Year has begun, we are left to make good on the New Year’s resolutions we so proudly made as the clock struck midnight and 2013 officially commenced. For most of us, however, our New Year’s resolutions soon become afterthoughts as we head back to work and the kids return to school. To help you this year, we’ve outlined a few of the most common New Year’s resolutions and offer some tips on how to keep them while taking advantage of all “The Plus” region has to offer.

+Lose Weight and Get Fit:

At one point or another, we all have likely made this New Year’s resolution. Despite our best efforts, however, we may have found it a challenge to keep our motivation going past February. Below are some less traditional ways to get out and burn those extra few calories while enjoying our own backyards.

  • Skiing/Snowboarding : You don’t have to be Shaun White or Picabo Street to get a good workout on the slopes. With best-in-class ski resorts nearby, skiers and snowboarders of all levels can take advantage of the winter season in Northeast Ohio. Check out these places if you’re looking to put a wintry spin on your workout:
  • Biking , Running & Hiking: Offering more than 275 miles of trails, Northeast Ohio is a great place to take in some of the best scenery while working up a sweat. From biking, to running, to hiking, “The Plus” region’s natural beauty is an exceptional motivator. If you’re looking to hit the trails, check out the Towpath Trail, which is the major pathway running through the Cuyahoga Valley National Park.
  • Rowing : You may want to wait for the ice to melt before grabbing your oar but if you’re looking for a fun way to stay fit, rowing may be the perfect solution. Home to marquee events such as the Head of the Cuyahoga Regatta, Northeast Ohio is an ideal place to hone your rowing skills. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or just beginning, the below organizations will have you up and rowing in no time!

+Learn Something New, Get a Better Education:

Whether you’re angling for a new job or just looking to broaden your intellectual horizons, the New Year is always a good time to head back to the classroom. Sometimes the hardest part is finding where to begin so below are some helpful ideas!

  • Continuing education courses : Depending on your career goals and personal aspirations, you may find it beneficial to take a course at one of the region’s many colleges and universities. Home to 27 accredited colleges and universities, many of these institutions offer continuing education classes and accreditations. Click here to see a directory of the region’s institutions of higher learning.
  • Professional Associations : For those looking to get on the career fast track, getting involved in a professional association may not only help you keep your New Year’s resolution, it may also help advance your career. For a complete list of the many professional associations with chapters in Northeast Ohio, visit: http://www.clevelandplus.com/Living-Here/Professional-Associations.aspx.  

+Eat Healthier & Diet:

Much like our commitment to exercise more, our plan to eat healthy often fades as soon as a co-worker brings in a box of doughnuts. But fear not, there are ways to eat healthy while not sacrificing flavor and taste. Known in foodie circles across the nation as a culinary hotspot, Northeast Ohio’s restaurants and local eateries offer some of the best food around, minus the calories. Check out the below Health magazine article, which offers a handy guide on eating healthy and then be sure to venture out to your favorite local hotspot!

+Save Money (free things to do in Northeast Ohio):

With holiday bills coming in, the New Year is often a time for many to look at how they can save a few extra dollars. But just because you’re on a budget, doesn’t mean you still can’t get out and have fun. Below are some fun and free activities that you can enjoy right here in Northeast Ohio.

  • Art Museums : Home to some of the finest art museums in the nation, Northeast Ohio’s art institutions also offer free admission. Follow the links below to plan your visit.
  • Lock 3 in Akron : Located in downtown Akron, Lock 3 offers a number of free events and activities throughout the entire year. One of Lock 3’s most popular features is its 10,000 square-foot ice rink, which is free if you bring your own skates.
  • Wade Oval : Situated in Cleveland’s University Circle, Wade Oval is one of the region’s premier public spaces. From mid-June to late August, Northeast Ohioans can enjoy Wade Oval Wednesdays, a free concert series featuring new bands and entertainment every week.

+Volunteer:

Looking to give back to the Northeast Ohio community this year? There’s no shortage of ways to get involved. “The Plus” region is filled with what seems like an endless number of service organizations, working across a number of areas. No matter your interests or areas of expertise, there is sure to be a volunteer opportunity for you. To help you get started, visit the below sites, which provide a series of available volunteer opportunities in Northeast Ohio.

Even if you don’t stay 100 percent true to your New Year’s resolution this year, we hope you will get out and enjoy everything Northeast Ohio has to offer. For more on all there is to do and see in “The Plus” region, visit the Cleveland Plus events calendar.

Happy New Year Northeast Ohio!

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