Making New Year's resolutions to get fit and healthy is easy, but carrying out those plans is the hardest part of fitness conundrum.

Is rolling out of bed at 7 a.m. for the gym trek really worth it? Won't that extra donut get burned off from the stressful day at work? Why isn't chocolate calorie-free? These are all common questions of the once-motivated fitness enthusiast who has unknowingly fallen off the wagon.

However, there are plenty of ways to jump back onto the health train and make some fitness habits that stick; here's what you need to make getting and staying in shape a priority:

Keep a Journal or Log
Researchers say jotting down your fitness conquests is the best way to stay motivated and right on track with your health goals. Pick up a snazzy journal and fill it up with all the healthy activities you've accomplished over the course of the day.

Pack the Gym Bag the Night Before
One of the easiest excuses for skipping the gym is you ran out of time. Plan ahead by packing your gear in a stylish bag so you can hit the road in a flash. Check off shoes, shorts, tees and other gear from your to-do list for the early a.m. trek so you can focus on just getting to the gym right after you wake up.

Do the Right Workouts
If you're dreading the gym because you detest the workouts, find an activity that you truly enjoy. If running isn't your thing, stop! Work with a personal trainer to narrow down your field of choices to pick out some activities that you actually look forward to. You'll be much more motivated to tackle the physical challenge when you're having fun with it.

Pack a Lunch
Avoid the temptation to overeat on unhealthy food or dine out for a mega-calorie lunch by preparing your own food. Grab a lunch bag and stock up on healthy meals and snacks to keep your energy level soaring throughout the day.

Get a Friend Involved
Find someone who can hold you accountable to your commitment to get healthy and fit. Working out with a workout buddy or talking to someone setting similar fitness goals can keep you motivated and on track on even the most challenging days.