For Joe Bauerfeind, resolutions are not even a spark in his mind. When asked what changes he planned to make to better himself in 2014, he responded with none. It wasn’t that he forgot to make resolutions, as many other locals admitted. He is simply content with himself.
Bauerfeind has not made a resolution for several years because he lives a decent life, eats well and exercises regularly, he said.
Others, however, did not have the same attitude.
Eliot Riedel of Durango, at first, said he wanted to snowboard more this year, but quickly doubled back and said he wanted to “be in the moment” more this year.
Lisa E., who declined to give her last name, Durango’s “Hula-Hoop girl,” said she wanted a drama-free year, if possible, and continued health.
Leigh Caswell said she wanted to play more, ski more and spend time with family.
Susie McCune expressed her desire to lose 20 pounds as her husband chuckled in the background and wished her luck. She was also grateful to be spending the new year with her family, which was visiting from Texas.
While most Main Avenue shops were closed for the holiday, several people were seen enjoying a casual walk and occasionally stopping to browse the few open shops.
A group of men drinking at El Rancho Tavern were heard cheering “Happy New Year” as onlookers strolled by.
Chatter among friends could be heard, and it seemed that a general goal was to eat more healthfully and to exercise more.
Ken Flint, who manages the Durango Sports Club, said December and January are busy months for issuing new memberships. Those who plan ahead will sign up in late December, while others who chose more of a fresh start will sign up the first week of January.
He mentioned that Tuesday was fairly busy because gym-goers were trying to get their last workout of the year. Wednesday, however, was slow. Probably stemming from New Year’s Eve festivities, he said.
Though people may have good intentions and the desire to commit to their resolution, retention rates fall around February and March, Flint said.
“Our goal is to help people maintain their goals,” he said.
Flint, who was previously quoted as saying he wanted to be more like Jesus spiritually, said that resolutions fade, while goals involve commitment.
Flint is hoping to help new members maintain their motivations and advises them to find a friend who will hold them accountable.
If you make plans to exercise early in the morning with a partner, you are less likely to not go for the sake of not standing them up, he said.
vguthrie@durangoherald.com
