Mary Duttera, 65, of Dover Township, starts her workout as her husband, Craig, 67, warms up on the treadmill in the fitness center at Bob Hoffman YMCA. (FLIPSIDE -- CHRIS DUNN)
As we usher in a new year, it's time to dust off those resolutions and get cracking. (At least for the first month or two.) Arguably one of the most popular resolutions that most people pledge is to lose weight.

We pack on the holiday pounds (after all, who can say no to another helping of pie), and then we hibernate until the warmer temperatures return. Instead of dreading the summer months, grab your significant other and get moving ... together.

We are always more successful at staying motivated when we have a workout buddy. So, instead of plopping in front of the television or movie screen, go out and do something together.

Racquetball

This is the sport where you have a hard, little ball, a racquet and protective

Craig Duttera, 67, of Dover Township, warms up on the treadmill before working out with his wife, Mary, 65, at Bob Hoffman YMCA. (FLIPSIDE -- CHRIS DUNN)
glasses. There are several racquetball courts in York.

Basketball

All you need are sneakers, a basketball and a hoop. If you don't have a basketball hoop at your house, check out the free courts at local parks in the area. There is one at Sunset Lane Park in West Manchester Township, at John C. Rudy County Park and Springettsbury Township Park off Mount Zion Road just to name a few.

You don't need a full team to play basketball. Try one-on-one and the first to reach 21 points wins. Each player calls his or her own fouls, so don't cheat! The sprints are sure to get your motor running.

After the battle or as a warm-up, play a game of H-O-R-S-E or P-I-G.

Clueless? One player shoots from anywhere on the court. If he or she makes it, then the second player has to shoot from that same location and make it. If he or she misses the shot, a letter is given. The first person to spell the word loses.

Tennis

Tennis courts are spread throughout the county, as well. Farquhar Park has a few at the top of the hill above the lake near the bandstand. Grab your tennis racket and a couple of balls to take on your opponent. Grab another couple and play doubles.

For the rules and an explanation of how to count points (it can be confusing), visit the United States Tennis Association website at www.usta.com.

Skating

Roll on over to the ice or the roller rink for a fun date night. The York City Ice Arena, 941 Vander Ave. in York, dubs itself "The COOLEST Place in Town!!!" with figure skating, freestyle nights and open hockey times. Check out the full schedule at www.yorkskate.com or call 717-848-1084. Roll 'R' Way Skating Rink is right down the road at 940 Vander Ave. in York. There are several days and times that offer free skate, as well as Hip Hop Urban Nite on Sunday. For details, call 717-843-7500 or visit www.rollrway.net.

Jogging/walking

When all else fails, lace up your shoes and take a walk. Bundle up with your new holiday scarf, grab your significant other's hand and pound some pavement. Even if you're not a runner, walk for 10 minutes and try to jog for just one minute. The more you practice, the better you'll get at it. Not to mention, the health benefits of a higher rate of activity helps the pounds melt off.

- LAURA BURKEY,
For FlipSide