Most of us create New Year’s Resolutions each year and, for many of us, they revolve around health and fitness! We start by creating a goal to lose weight or feel healthier, and after a few months pass by, our goal begins to fade into the background of our day-to-day lives slowly. To help you make your resolutions stick, we have put together a list of our top 7 tips to follow!
1. Select a suitable exercise
Selecting a form of exercise that goes too far beyond your strength, stamina, and tolerance level can make the task seem unbearable. Even though it is great to push yourself during a new fitness plan, you need to make sure you start out with something that your body and mind can handle. Doing it gradually will help to build you up so that you can handle more in the long run, and won’t have you quitting halfway in.
2. Be specific
Have you ever gone to the gym with the goal of working hard and starting your new routine off right, only to find yourself lost and not knowing where to begin? Be specific with your workouts and go in with a plan! What body parts will you work out today? How will you do it? What problem areas do you want to focus on? Create a plan ahead of time, so you make the most of your workout.
3. Make your goals attainable
It is very easy to be hungry for results at the beginning of a new fitness plan. Often, we set a goal that goes above what we may be capable of. We want to make sure that your goals are attainable! Start with figuring out how many days a week you will be able to work out (and be honest with yourself). If you are not working out at all right now, it would not be smart to plan to work out 5 days a week right off the bat. Much like setting proper exercises for yourself, you will need to increase your fitness time as you build your stamina gradually.
4. Accountability from friends
Find someone who will hold you accountable to your goals! Having a workout partner or someone you know who can hold you accountable can significantly increase your chances of following through with your plan. Try joining a fitness class where you have others there to push you. You could also hire a personal trainer to keep you on track and motivate you towards your fitness goals.
5. Track your progress
Keep track of your progress by creating a tracking sheet that works for you. Log your workouts so you can see the progress you are making week over week (try tracking cardio time, weights lifted, etc.). Track your weight and measurements, so there is no denying that you are making changes. You can even note how you are feeling physically, mentally and emotionally during your workouts to track trends. Doing so will keep you motivated and held accountable for your own progress.
6. Sign up for a competition
Competitions motivate you to work towards your goal. It also helps to be more focused since there is a date on which the competition will take place.
7. Nourish your body
This is one of the most important factors in starting a new health routine. Many feel they need to starve themselves to lose weight. Not true! Make sure you are nourishing your body with fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Starving yourself will cause your body to begin craving unhealthy foods such as sugar and starchy carbs. Give your body the vitamins and nutrients it needs and makes sure you are getting enough to sustain your workouts. If you are not sure about what to eat to attain your personal fitness goals, try talking to a personal trainer or nutritionist for advice.
These steps will give you a great start to a healthier 2018. If you are consistent and keep your mind focused on your goal, you will be amazed at your results! If you feel you need additional advice or a jumpstart to a new fitness plan, contact 3Strong Fitness!