Let’s face it: Getting fit is task number one on many individuals’ New Year’s resolutions list. Yet as January rolls around, a steady fitness regime is also one of the promises most soon forgotten. Those who vow to stick to a plan tend to lose steam—and ultimately give up on their fitness goals.
Are you curious how you can stay motivated to beat the cliché? The solution is to create consistent healthy habits that steer you in the right direction. Let’s look at some fitness tips and tricks to start the new year off right. A peak body and mind await.
Be Realistic: Set SMART Goals
Don’t be overeager to run into the new year full steam ahead. A major problem with New Year’s resolutions is impracticality. Small, realistic goals are the ideal starting point for your fitness resolutions. Starting small often helps you feel more satisfied and gratified when achievement occurs—and spurs on further motivation to hit even larger goals.
For this upcoming year, try to set a SMART goal—aka one that’s specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. This approach supports your resolution, as you can actively monitor and measure your progress. Having a set deadline also makes all the difference as you move forward. You can avoid the possibility of giving up in the first place because you know the eventual goal is attainable.
A Healthy Mindset: Be Kind to Yourself
Truth be told, the best method for achieving fitness goals begins with a healthy mindset. The idea is to change how you think, not solely how you act. The more time you intentionally spend on yourself, the more your body will believe it too. Reward yourself and celebrate those baby steps along the way.
Remember to be kind to yourself this year. Recovery is as important as your active sweat sessions. Take the proper steps to reduce the DOMS phenomenon and soothe soreness and tightness. Take rest days seriously to allow your body to recovery healthily and effectively.
Buddy Up: Use a Workout Partner
Accountability is another influential factor in reaching one’s fitness goals. Many let go of their resolutions because there are no lasting consequences when they fail to reach them. Ergo, teaming up with an accountability partner is another fitness tip and trick to start the new year off right. Two is better than one to see your goal through and reach that finish line.
Find a Plan That Works for You
Last but certainly not least, don’t be afraid to adjust a routine to find what works the best for you. Even if you’re teaming up with a trainer or workout buddy, no one else can determine that but you. Decide what fitness you feel most comfortable doing, can achieve, and love. When push comes to shove, you’ll find yourself in the right direction toward success.
