The beginning of the year is a great time to set goals for the next 12 months. Resolutions to support our minds and spirits can be just as valuable as vows to improve our physical health. Use the following tips to give all three areas a little extra TLC in 2012.

The end of the year is a great time to reflect on what we’d like to change or improve in the next 12 months. For many, health and fitness top the list. Others may be interested in getting involved in their community, learning a new skill, or finding a new job. What will you do to make your resolutions a reality? We're offering five strategies to get you started. Have additional ideas? Please share them ...

When dealing with life’s daily demands, people need a place to go where they can feel supported. Adults need help finding balance in life and motivation in managing their health. Children need safe environments where they’re nurtured and inspired to reach their full potential. Seniors need a place where they can be active and find camaraderie. And, families need opportunities and places to connect and strengthen relationships with one another.

Advances in technology and the availability of mobile apps are leading many of us to use our Smartphones for much more than phone calls. Today we can tap into mobile applications to help with dieting, exercise, nutrition and more. Here’s a list of popular health-related apps. There are hundreds of othes out there – tell us about your favorites by commenting below.

As reported in the New York Times, YMCA of the USA is adopting new healthy living standards for youth, including offering fruits, vegetables and water at snack time, increasing exercise time, and limiting video games and television for youngsters in its programs.

With the holiday season just around the corner, healthy eating can be a challenge. Statistics show that half of the annual weight gain of Americans occurs between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Day. After a few years all this extra weight can add up! Below is a healthy version of a favorite holiday recipe for you and your loved ones to enjoy.  YMCA of the Suncoast wishes all our friends in Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando and Citrus Counties a safe and happy Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. With the fall season and the start of this holiday time, many of us get caught up in all the hustle and bustle that follows the holidays.  Instead of immediately feeling overwhelmed before we’ve even begun, could it be that this season of thanks prepares us for a season of giving? When we are truly thankful, it is natural and easy to give to others. And in giving, we receive more.

When someone living on Florida’s Suncoast thinks about heading outdoors for biking, rollerblading, running or hiking, the Fred Marquis Pinellas Trail is usually the first place that comes to mind. This trail, which stretches from south Pinellas into Tarpon Springs, offers clean, well maintained paths for just about any sport.

There are also other, lesser known trails for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy in West Central Florida. A few examples appear below. We’d like to know about your favorite local spots. Please add to our list by leaving a comment below.

Even the most dedicated athletes find it hard to get off the couch once in a while. Whether you’re an exercise enthusiast or just getting back into a fitness routine, chances are you know how it feels to lose workout momentum. It could be that you have reached a mental or physical plateau, or maybe you’re bored with an overdone workout routine. Here are five ways to add mojo back into your motions.

When it comes to health benefits, not all smoothies are created equal. Some pack extra sugar that can result in extra pounds. Others use high-calorie ingredients when low-cal will do. How can you ensure that your smoothie delivers the right balance taste and nutrition? Try the recipe below. It includes a generous amount of fresh fruit, along with calcium for healthy bones and teeth. Looking for an extra boost to send your smoothie into nutritional overdrive? Add an ounce of wheatgrass for the nutritional equivalent of 20 ounces of garden vegetables.