It's that time of the year when tempting food and long days indoors fill up your daily schedule, leaving you little time to get to the gym or outside for an exercise session. If it looks like next year's New Year's resolution will be dominated by face time with a personal trainer, enrolling in cardio boot camp or trying out a new diet to peel off a few pounds, why not get a head start on your fitness wish list with a few extra trips to the gym?

Clocking in more gym time now means you can ward off excess pounds and prepare your body for Round 2 of your fitness frenzy before the Times Square ball drops. Here are some tips to stay motivated and get going on your fitness plan:

1. Pick out some trendy shoes. Sometimes a quick shopping session can lift your spirits and keep you motivated to finally hit the gym - so why not do it in style? Pick up a new pair of versatile running shoes or cross trainers so you can give yourself an excuse to put them to good use.

2. Pack for success. Load up a gym bag with all the necessities so you're always prepared to head off to the fitness center at a moment's notice. You'll be less likely to skip the gym when you have a bag sitting in the car or right by your door as a constant reminder.

3. Boost your spirits with a new gym outfit. A fresh pair of shorts, capris or other active wear can help you get your gym groove on in no time. Make a commitment to simply get dressed for the gym at a specific time during the day and give yourself only two choices: hit the gym or change back into your regular clothing. When you're all dressed and ready to go, you're much more likely to just get your gym circuit over and done with before you have a chance to quit!

Getting more gym time into your holiday schedule isn't as tough as it seems; just take action with any of these strategies so you can get a head start on your New Year's fitness resolutions.