Make This Your Year
Okay, let’s be real. If sticking to regular exercise was easy, everybody would do it. But it is an attainable goal – if you overcome the stumbling blocks and keep your eyes on the prize long enough to start seeing results.
Here’s how to take charge of your fitness destiny!
1. Make Your Routine Your Own.
We all have different goals and motivators, so choose a routine that gets you pumped up. Do you get a rush from working out with others? Try a group class that works well for your fitness level. More of a one-on-one type? A personal trainer or an at-home virtual workout might be more your speed. No matter what you choose, make your routine something you can get excited about. If it’s fun, it’s something you’ll stick to.
People do better with people. You're a lot less likely to skip a workout if you know someone is there waiting for you.
– Dr Kristen Carlin, physical therapist and CrossFit instructor
2. Choose an Accountability Partner.
Once you’ve got your routine locked down, find an accountability buddy – even if your buddy is just a friend who texts you ten minutes before you’re scheduled to work out. Not only will they be there to give you the nudge you need when you need it, you’ll also have a mate to share your growing successes with.
3. Map Your Progress.
Keep tabs on what you've accomplished with a fitness tracker or journal – and share it with your accountability partner! When we’re in the midst of our fitness journey, it can be hard to see how far we’ve come. Remember that progress can seem slow, but it adds up. Make a point to take a look through your progress tracker once a week or once every two weeks. You’ll be proud at how much you’ve grown and improved, even in small ways.
4. Look Forward, Not Back.
Okay, so you had a bad day (or week). You missed a workout, or you just didn’t feel up to the challenge this time. Don’t sweat it, you’re not alone. It’s okay to give yourself a little time to feel disappointed but then get back up on your feet and start fresh. The ‘you’ of yesterday is gone – today is a brand new day and a brand new opportunity to get it right!
5. Pat Yourself on the Back.
This step is easy to forget, but it’s one of the most important. When the next-size-down jeans fit you, buy them! You deserve it, and it’s a little extra motivation to stick with your plan. If you can, treat yourself to workout clothes you feel good in. There’s nothing like a confidence boost to keep your performance going strong.
The contents of this article are for informational purposes only. It is recommended that you see your doctor or registered dietician before making any changes to your diet.