Do you make New Year’s resolutions? Most people do! In fact, when the ball drops on New Year’s Eve, many have resolved to either lose weight, to exercise more or to eat a healthier diet.
Unfortunately, almost half of all those resolutions have gone the way of the New Year’s party hats by March. A new year brings new promise, but once routine sets in it’s easy to let your goals fall by the wayside.
We can help! Whether you’ve resolved to compete in a triathlon, to fit into a few sizes smaller, strengthen muscles, or to lower your blood pressure, follow these tips to make your fitness and nutrition goals stick in 2020.
To better learn how to make those goals stick, it may be helpful to learn why they usually don’t. There are a few reasons why New Year’s resolutions don’t always last beyond the spring.
This year, it’s all about you. You’re going to stick to your resolutions and reach your goals. Here are six tips to help you achieve all you want in 2020!
SMART is an acronym you should keep in mind while setting your goals. In short, they should be:
You’re more likely to meet your goals for fitness and nutrition is you have some accountability. There are a few ways you can do this.
Losing 30 pounds in 12 months is absolutely achievable! But it’s also a big goal. Don’t let yourself become discouraged early in the year. Instead, set “baby goals” along the way. Setting smaller goals—say, one pound per week—will keep you encouraged. Don’t forget to celebrate each mini-goal!
It’s very hard to reach your goal if you know nothing about it. Before you make your plan, be sure you know what you’re getting into! Meet with a personal trainer to discuss your goals and develop a plan of action. A trainer is a great resource when setting your goal—he or she can provide information on exactly what you’ll need to do to make your resolution a reality.
In January, you’ll be pounding the pavement. By April, it may be more of a slow amble. If you begin to get bored with your routine, switch it up! Talk to your personal trainer about new exercises you can implement or new recipes you can try. It’s easy to give up on your goals if you’re bored with the process.
We’re all human! There might be a morning when you just can’t force yourself to the gym. There may be a night when you can’t say no to some wings while you watch the game.
That’s okay! Know there’s a learning curve to every process. You’re bound to make a few mistakes and see a few setbacks. Have a plan in place to motivate yourself and get back on track—you’ll be reaching your goals in no time!Above all, don't give up!