Written by Beth Funari Sims Cert. Personal Trainer

It’s hard to not have resolutions on your mind come January 1st.

Inevitably our inbox becomes inundated with product emails promising to make this your best year YET. Even your loved ones, and colleagues might be inquiring how you plan to better yourself in 2017.

A depressing stat: According to Forbes just 8% of people achieve their new years resolutions. Yikes!

Yet here I am writing about resolutions because there is no industry more directly tied to them than Health & Fitness.  Year after year losing weight, and getting in shape are cited as Americans top two resolutions.

If either of these are one of your resolutions I applaud you for wanting to make a positive change. I also encourage a mindful approach.  Unfortunately there are so many scammy diets, and needless “get-fit-fast” products out there.

Avoid these quick-fixes and start a program you can stick with past February!

It’s important to focus on the tried and true methods of consistent workouts, and healthy, balanced eating.

Here are some keys to help you make productive resolutions that you’ll actually stick to:

  • Define your goals. Consider the SMART approach –is your resolution specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-bound?
  • Break it down. Instead of putting all your energy into one HUGE goal think about what it’s going to take to get there. For example, if you want to lose 20 lbs. this year consider determining the actionable steps you will take each month.  Perhaps that means committing to a specific amount of workouts each week, or meal planning each Sunday.
  • Visualize. Say you want to run your first half marathon. Really think about how incredible crossing that 13.1-mile finish line will feel! Use that as motivation to keep going on tough days.
  • Consider roadblocks and anticipate slip-ups. There will always be unexpected late nights at work, family issues and unforeseen obstacles on your road to that resolution. When these happen don’t dwell. Move on quickly, and get back to working towards your goals as soon as possible.
  • Put it on paper. And check back. Writing resolutions down helps keep us accountable. Be sure to reread your goals often, and you’ll be less likely to push them aside as the year progresses.

Happy New Year, all!

 

Cartoon of large dog asking small dog what New Years Resolution is in winter landscape

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