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Scharyta Martin lost 162 lbs. She said. "I just didn't care. I was in a place emotionally where I just didn't care."

It's a dangerous place to be.

"Seeing both of my parents, you know, with diabetes and all that...I knew that I would be on that same path if I didn't change," Martin said.

Five New Years have passed since Scharyta Martin fit snugly into a 3XL t-shirt.

Now, with changes in diet and exercise, Martin has lost 162 pounds.

"It started with a friend who got me interested in racquetball, and then we just kind of started doing Zumba and just different things. With the help of my faith, and my family and friends, it's been a lot easier," Martin said.

But even if you have friends, family and fait, there's still one important thing missing. The most important part of reaching your personal fitness goal, is you.

YMCA Health Director Brenda Lind said, "She wanted to do it, and she's the one that made it happen, which is the most important thing. If you're ready to do it, we're ready to help you."

YMCAs, or membership fitness centers like them, are available in most metropolitan centers. Many are offering deals to help with your New Year's resolution.

Lind said, "The month of January, it's half-off the joining fee, so hopefully folks will come in and get started."

Trainers and workout partners are at-the-ready -- but no amount of outside help will lose the weight for you. They say the best determination comes from within.

Martin said, "You just have to keep going. You know, make it a part of your daily life...you know, one day at a time."

Martin recommends setting small goals, which she says will eventually turn into big changes in your life.