It’s that time of year to think about what we want to achieve in the coming year and to create a realistic and sustainable plan. Being both sustainable and realistic is crucial when setting fitness goals and resolutions.
Given all the uncertainty many of us are facing, I wanted to write something hopeful for the New Year. It’s important to focus on what we can control, and one major aspect is our health and wellness.
Here are some helpful tips to keep yourself accountable and stick to your New Year’s fitness goals:
1. Write Things Down: I find that writing things down helps me remember what I want to accomplish. It makes my goals feel more real and significant, and there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of crossing something off my to-do list. Try writing your goals on a whiteboard where you can see them daily—it helps with accountability and keeps your aims top of mind.
2. Be Specific: The more detailed your goals, the more likely you are to achieve them. Instead of saying, “I want to become more athletic,” define what being athletic means to you. For instance, set goals like “I want to lose five pounds, run a mile, and limit myself to one cheat meal per week for six months.” These are clear, measurable targets.
3. Limit Your Goals: Don’t overwhelm yourself with too many goals at once. Stick to 1-4 main goals and consider having sub-goals that support your main objective. For example, if your main goal is to get stronger, your sub-goals could be to add one upper body workout and one lower body workout each week. Be specific and create a plan detailing how you’ll achieve these goals.
4. Check-in Regularly: Use a fitness journal or log—digital or paper—to track your progress and how you’re feeling along the way. Note your sleep patterns, mood, energy levels, and work/life balance. This data can help you adjust your plan if needed, ensuring you stay on track.
5. Celebrate Progress: It’s important to celebrate the small wins, not just the end result. Recognize and take pride in your progress, as it boosts your self-esteem and motivates you to keep going, even when things get tough.
6. Plan for Setbacks: Be prepared for unforeseen challenges like injuries or increased workload. It’s essential to know when to take it easy without giving up on your goals. Rest if you need to, but have a plan for how you’ll get back on track to maintain your progress.
7. Involve Others: Getting others involved can significantly boost your accountability. Whether it’s a friend, trainer, group class, or gym buddy, having someone to join you or remind you of your goals can make a big difference. Find what works for you and your support system.
I hope you find these tips helpful as you work toward your fitness goals and resolutions. Remember, discipline is choosing between what you want now and what you want most. Stay focused on where you want to be in the future, and adjust if you find your short-term actions conflicting with your long-term goals.
If you have any questions or comments, feel free to reach out. Thanks for reading and stay tuned!
