Fitness-related or not, we all know the annual routine with New Year resolutions. Come January, the gyms are packed shoulder-to-shoulder and alcohol and sugary treats have been sworn off. But, without fail, by the time February comes around, the gym crowd dies off and diets become obsolete. So, what are the secrets to sticking with your New Year fitness goals? There are a few specific ways to stick with your goals all year long.
Why You Should Set Fitness Goals for the New Year Fitness
In my opinion, there isn’t a downside to setting new goals for yourself. And, when it comes to health and fitness, I’m a firm believer that goal setting is a necessary step to any affecting fitness program!
Setting health and fitness goals for yourself not only gives you something to work towards, but it increases motivation and dedication. Also, setting goals allows you to track your progress, while recognizing your hard work and achievements, naturally boosting self-confidence.
How to Stick with Your New Year Fitness Goals
No matter your fitness goal: weight loss, muscle building, or endurance training, implementing these tips will help you stick with your New Year fitness goal throughout 2022:
- Schedule Your Workouts- Consider your workouts as appointments with yourself. Just as you wouldn’t cancel an appointment with your boss, don’t be willing to cancel “appointments” with yourself! Plan ahead and schedule your workouts into your calendar at a time that works best for you.
- Be S.M.A.R.T. About It- Setting S.M.A.R.T. goals are the key to success. S.M.A.R.T. stands for specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. Is your goal specific? Can it be measured and quantified? Is your goal attainable and realistic or is it out of reach? Finally, did you set a timeline for your goal?
- Find a Gym You Enjoy- If you feel intimidated or unwelcome at your gym, it’s time to find a new one. While it’s normal to feel nervous attending a new gym, feelings of intimation should wear off with time. When scouting a new gym, ask about professional trainers, classes offered, locker room facilities, and more. Most importantly, make sure the gym is in a convenient location for you.
- Set Small Goals- In line with S.M.A.R.T. goals, setting smaller goals helps you achieve the bigger, long-term goal. Yet, on a day-to-day basis, smaller goals are more achievable and much less intimidating.
- Splurge on New Workout Gear- It might sound silly, but it’s true: if you feel good in your workout gear, you’re much more likely to put it on and get your body moving. New gear doesn’t have to break the bank either. Look at Old Navy and Target for affordable workout apparel.
- Remember, Life Happens: While consistency is key to making health and fitness progress, life is also very fluid. Try to be flexible and give yourself grace when things don’t go as planned. Learn to adapt and make backup plans, when necessary.
Examples of S.M.A.R.T. Fitness Goals
Remember: S.M.A.R.T. goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. Here are a few, real-life examples of S.M.A.R.T. goals:
- Taking a morning walk outside for 10+ minutes.
- Weight lifting at the gym for 30 minutes 3-4 times a week.
- Increasing run time by 5 minutes each week.
What are your fitness goals this year? Are they S.M.A.R.T. goals?
