The start of a new year often brings a surge of motivation to make positive changes in our lives. For many, one of the most common resolutions is to prioritize fitness and exercise. However, as the year progresses, that initial enthusiasm can wane, and many people find themselves falling back into old habits. At EIM Personal Training, we understand the challenges of sticking to exercise resolutions and are here to help.
How To Keep Exercise Resolutions
Today, we’ll share valuable insights and strategies to help you keep your exercise resolutions throughout the year.
Set Clear and Realistic Goals
One of the biggest mistakes people make when setting exercise resolutions is aiming too high or being too vague. Instead of saying, “I want to get in shape,” set specific, achievable goals such as “I want to lose 10 pounds in three months” or “I want to run a 5K by the end of the year.” Clear and realistic goals provide you with a concrete target to work towards, making it easier to stay motivated.
Create a Detailed Plan
Once you have your goals in mind, it’s crucial to create a detailed plan to achieve them. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if you want to lose 10 pounds in three months, you might set a weekly weight loss target of 1-2 pounds. Your plan should include the type of exercises you’ll do, the days and times you’ll work out, and any necessary equipment or resources. Having a well-defined plan makes it easier to stay on track and measure your progress.
Find an Accountability Partner
Accountability can be a powerful motivator. Consider finding a workout buddy or an accountability partner who shares your fitness goals. Having someone to exercise with and check in on your progress can help keep you committed to your resolutions. You can encourage each other, celebrate successes, and provide support during challenging times.
Choose Activities You Enjoy
Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. In fact, it’s much easier to stick with a fitness routine when you genuinely enjoy the activities you’re doing. Explore different types of exercises and find what works best for you. Whether it’s dancing, swimming, hiking, or weightlifting, there’s an exercise for everyone. When you look forward to your workouts, staying consistent becomes a lot easier.
Establish a Routine
Consistency is key when it comes to maintaining exercise resolutions. Create a workout schedule that fits into your daily or weekly routine. Treat your exercise appointments with the same level of importance as any other commitment in your life. Over time, these routines will become habits, making it less likely for you to skip workouts.
Track Your Progress
Tracking your progress is essential for staying motivated and making adjustments as needed. Keep a workout journal or use fitness tracking apps to monitor your exercises, diet, and results. Seeing how far you’ve come can boost your confidence and drive to keep going. Additionally, tracking helps identify any areas where you may need to make changes to achieve your goals.
Be Flexible and Adapt
Life is unpredictable, and there may be times when unforeseen circumstances interfere with your exercise routine. Instead of viewing these setbacks as failures, see them as opportunities to adapt and overcome. If you miss a workout, don’t get discouraged; simply reschedule it. Being flexible and adjusting your plan when needed is a key element in maintaining your exercise resolutions over the long term.
Reward Yourself
Rewarding yourself for achieving milestones can be a great motivator. Set up a reward system that acknowledges your hard work. For example, if you reach your monthly fitness goals, treat yourself to a massage or a new workout outfit. Rewards can make the journey more enjoyable and keep you focused on your long-term objectives.
Seek Professional Guidance
Consider working with a fitness trainer or coach who can provide expert guidance and support. Personal trainers, like ours at EIM, can help you design a tailored exercise program, monitor your progress, and ensure you’re performing exercises correctly and safely. Their expertise can be invaluable in helping you reach your fitness goals.
Stick To It!
Sticking to exercise resolutions requires commitment, planning, and perseverance. At EIM Personal Training, we understand the challenges you may face on your fitness journey. By setting clear goals, creating a detailed plan, finding accountability, choosing enjoyable activities, establishing routines, tracking progress, being flexible, rewarding yourself, and seeking professional guidance, you can significantly improve your chances of keeping your exercise resolutions throughout the year. Remember that the key to success is consistency, and with the right strategies and mindset, you can achieve your fitness goals and enjoy a healthier, more active lifestyle. Contact us today to get started with a fitness plan built for you.