Ring in a happier and healthier you in the new year

Bobbie Thomas TODAY Style Editor

You may have the best intentions, but it’s hard to keep New Year’s resolutions for 12 months! If you're prone to struggling, don't fret. Combine the right attitude with a few innovative ideas and products, and you’ll be on your way to a happier, healthier and hotter you! Bobbie Thomas, TODAY Style editor, and author of the Buzz column for In Touch Weekly, has the scoop on the latest tools that'll help you meet — and exceed — your goals in the new year.

Workout wonders
Getting back in shape can be a burden, but there are two new fitness fads that are certain to pique your interest. While a personal trainer is a nice luxury, stars like Reese Witherspoon are relying on Rese Activewear to help maintain perfect form. This “smart” clothing line contains panels that show where to draw the navel to the spine, and stripes to help keep hips aligned. ($48-$100; resepilates.com)

If you’re looking to stay in shape without spending any cash, Lululemon stores across the country are offering free fitness classes every week at their retail locations. The classes are open to everyone in the community, no matter your fitness level, and Lululemon even provides the mats and equipment. (Lululemon.com for schedule)

Predetermined portions
Those with New Year’s diet resolutions can rejoice. Delivery diet options — once available only to those in New York or Los Angeles — are now available nationally. Programs such as Nu Kitchen (a favorite meal source for stars like Sarah Jessica Parker and Molly Sims) offer good-for-you gourmet meals delivered to your doorstep. ($239-$1,260 per month; nu-kitchen.com) 

If you prefer do-it-yourself portion control, Slimware’s stylish plates may be the perfect option. Disguised in the design of each plate are eye-catching patterns that function as a guide to healthy serving sizes. ($39.95; slimware.com)

Forgo mass snacks in favor of nutrition bars that contain the exact ingredients you want. You Bar lets you create your own custom-flavored bars based on preferences such as protein powder, sweeteners, seasonings, nuts and dried fruit. ($2.99 per bar; youbars.com)

Tracking tools
Take control of your finances and personal goals with items that help you stay focused. You can begin 2009 with a bright outlook thanks to Sarah Love Creations’ Life is Beautiful and SO Are You calendar ($12; sarahlovecreations.com). With optimistic artwork and a positive message on every page, it’s easy to feel inspired.

Those who are focused on their finances will want a My Money Matters Kit to help conquer financial fears through colorful resources. By combining the emotional side of money with the practical side, these beautifully illustrated affirmation cards and workbooks will put you on the right path ($24.95; mymoneykit.com). In addition, keep track of gift certificates with handy organizers from Buttoned Up ($12-$15; shopintuition.com).

Finally, tackle your New Year’s resolutions with the help of a functional trinket. Thanks to beads that can be moved from one side of the bangle to the other upon completion of a task, Count Me Healthy's sterling-silver bracelets make it easy to monitor your goals. Whether it's counting calories or glasses of water, keeping track of your progress just got pretty! ($88; countmehealthyjewelry.com) 

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