It’s no secret that there is a high percentage of relapse for those who set New Year’s resolutions. Many people kick of the year with ramped up enthusiasm for making positive changes, but that often fizzles out within a couple of months. If being more active is one of your resolutions, I want to offer some tips to help you get into and stick with a more consistent exercise routine.
- Make it Fun – You are much more likely to stick with something if you’re looking forward to it rather than dreading it. There are such a wide variety of activities that will get your heart racing and build/tone muscle; it’s worth looking around to find something that you’ll actually enjoy! Dancing, swimming, martial arts, bowling and team sports are just a few not so common activities that are very beneficial to health and are also lots of fun.
- Don’t Go it Alone – Sign up for a class or find a dedicated workout buddy. Either way, you’ll be much more committed by not wanting to waste money or let your friend down. Commit up front and you’ll be less likely to blow off your workout. Plus, the extra support of a friend or the group makes it much more exciting!
- Set a Goal – Aimlessly setting out on an exercise program might work out for you, but how much more rewarding would it be to set a goal, gradually work towards it and achieve it? Everyone’s goal will be unique for them, such as losing weight, consistently exercising over a period of time, losing inches, improving endurance, or balance. Tracking your progress in a journal can also be very rewarding, or alert you if you’ve gotten off track.
- Schedule it – Why is it that the things we want to do for ourselves, we leave them until last? It’s ironic because the better we take care of ourselves, the better we are at doing everything else in our lives. So put reminders in your phone and get out there and do it!
- Start Small – If you’re not exercising at all right now, don’t try to work out 7 days in a row; instead start with 2-3 days for 20 minutes. Start small, achieve your goal and gradually raise the bar. Remember it is progress, not perfection!
- Believe in Yourself – Henry Ford said, “If you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.” Wake up every morning and visualize the results you want to achieve and then affirm to yourself that it’s within your power to make these changes.
Are you inspired? If so, then join me for Total Fitness Boot Camp, 9-10am Monday & Wednesday mornings in Uxbridge starting January 9th, or 6:30-7:30pm Monday & Wednesday evenings in Milford starting January 23rd. For more options, including evening and Saturday classes, visit www.gainyourmomentum.com. This circuit training class provides a combination of cardio conditioning, core strength and overall body sculpting and toning. All levels – from beginners to advanced – are welcome, since everyone works at their own intensity. Training in this supportive, motivating group environment is not only fun, but effective in helping you reach your fitness goals!