Inspiration for New Year's resolutions at Toronto Boat Show

With 2007 here, the time to launch a New Year resolution or two has arrived and the 49th annual Toronto International Boat Show can help. Canada's largest marine marketplace kicks off the 2007 boating season Saturday, Jan. 13th through Sunday, Jan. 21st. With over a million square feet of great ideas, the Boat Show may make it a little easier to achieve New Year goals.

Resolution #1 To get in shape!

The boating lifestyle can not only enhance physical well-being, getting into better shape can also lead to greater enjoyment of all things marine. Boating provides a wonderful alternative to a daily trip to the gym. Kayaking and canoeing are great ways to exercise the upper body, while water skiing, wakeboarding and swimming are excellent full-body workouts. Mariners Marketplace at the Boat Show offers tips and equipment necessary to get into better physical (and mental!) shape on the water this summer. Water sports are a great way to stay in shape AND have fun!

Resolution #2 To spend more time with family!

Spending quality time with the family is easy with a boat. Reconnect in the middle of the lake and create memories that will last a lifetime. Boating provides the mobility to travel where you want, when you want, and with fewer distractions. From fishing, to sailing, to water-skiing -- and all the related fun and learning experiences that always come with growing families -- boating is truly the stuff of never-to-be-forgotten memories.

Resolution #3 To spend less money!

Deals, discounts and sales are what the 2007 Toronto International Boat Show is all about. Simplify shopping with a one-stop-shop for all boating needs. Boating really is an affordable way to get outdoors and enjoy life. At the Boat Show, watch for ìShow Specialsî highlighting bargains available only during the Show. Everyone purchasing a boat during the show gets the opportunity to win $10,000 towards the purchase PLUS a free gift bag. With 600 exhibitors, 1,500 boat models and thousands of accessories and services available for discovery, the Boat Show makes it easy to save money on virtually every kind of outdoor fun.

Resolution #4 To reduce stress!

Nothing relieves stress more than fresh air and a relaxing summer breeze. A recent survey conducted by the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) found that boating ranked among the top three stressrelieving activities, along with exercise and weekend getaways. Boating offers an escape from lifeís daily grind and the chance to ignore cell phones, emails and deadlines for at least a few hours.

For show information, visit TorontoBoatShow.com or call (905) 951-0009.

The Toronto Boat Show runs Jan. 13-21 at the Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place. The show kicks off early with its 8th annual Special Preview Night: Boating For Children's Charity on Friday, Jan. 12 from 4-9 p.m.

Show hours: (Jan. 13-21) are: Saturdays 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Sundays 10 am to 6 p.m.; weekdays noon to 9 pm. Admission: Adults - $15; Seniors (65+) - $12. Kids 16 and under - FREE! Two-day adult pass - $25. Preview Night admission - $75.

Buy tickets online at TorontoBoatShow.com and save $3 until Jan. 12.