TOP TIPS

The best way to stick to an exercise regime is to go to bed before 9:44pm, tell someone else about your plans and pack your gym gear two-and-a-half hours in advance.

Having three sets of exercise clothes, taking two days off a week and going to the gym first thing in the morning to “get it out of the way” are other tips people swear by to stick with their fitness plans.

The poll of 2,000 adults found 54 per cent reckon they need to exercise more often than they currently do, with a lack of time, motivation and money named as the biggest barriers.

But 37 per cent struggle more during January than at any other time of the year, with 56 per cent putting it down to the dark mornings and evenings making it harder to get going.

Andy Birch, of health club group Virgin Active, said: “One of the most important things when it comes to exercising is being motivated – if you aren’t, ● Fit it into your lifestyle: Set your alarm 30 minutes earlier or use your lunch break. Plan it into your day, so you can stick to it. ● Make it social: Grab a friend and train together, or join a team or group – be accountable. ● Invest in yourself: Geta trainer who will tailor your sessions to you and your goals ● Start with small changes: Setting yourself one thing to change each week is much more manageable.