I have never agreed with the idea of New Year’s resolutions. It has just never been the way I have gone about things. But I will admit that everyone has to start somewhere, and why not have it be on January 1st!
I think that everyone out there should add this to the end of their resolution to get into shape this year; “And this year I will stick with my New Year’s resolution!” Now I know that life is busy and things get in the way, but for goodness sakes, this is your life. You don’t have to starve yourself and you don’t even have to go to the gym every day.
Here are a couple of tips to help you stay on track with this years resolution to get in shape, lose weight, get fit or whatever your resolution is.
1. Don’t set out of sight goals. If you set goals that are not realistic, then you will fail. Start with small goals that work yourself toward a bigger goal. First 10lbs, then 20 lbs and so on.
2. But, don’t judge your results ONLY by weight loss. Many of my clients have told me that once their weight loss tapered off, they still saw a dramatic way in how their clothes fit and how they felt in general. You should also have your body fat composition measured at your local health club or by your doctor. Please do not have your BMI calculated based on your height and weight. Have a professional measure your body fat using professional tools.
3. Choose a club or routine that is the most convenient to your schedule. If the place you go to work out is on the way home from work, you will be more likely to stop there before going home. If your club is across town, guess what…you aren’t going to go as often and will eventually quit. Trust me, I see it every year!
4. If you don’t know, ASK SOMEBODY! If you have never lifted a weight, used a machine or taken a class, please ask someone how to get started. It may benefit you to hire a trainer for a few sessions to get you on your way. Many people don’t need more than that. One of the most rewarding aspects of my job is to give someone the tools to do the job and watch them succeed on their own.
5. Make your resolution A WAY OF LIFE and not just a 2 month fad. I have spent many years watching people hoard the gym in January only to be M.I.A. in March. Change your eating, add an exercise routine and enjoy your new and better feeling you.
Stay Fit, Stay Healthy
Keith