Well, it’s that time again — time to make some New Year’s resolutions. But let’s break the cycle and actually make some you will keep! I know how much you love making resolutions that you only follow for a week at most, but let’s shake things up and try to put some thought behind these. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Set a realistic goal. If you never workout, I wouldn’t suggest committing to seven days a week in the gym. Start out small with something achievable yet challenging without burning yourself out. Try running two days a week and then build up from there. Or commit to taking three fitness classes a week and slowly add in more gym time.
Set reminders. Now that you have your resolution, don’t let yourself forget about it. Set a daily or weekly reminder in your iPhone. Add good old fashioned notes to your bathroom mirror, work desk, next to your car keys and other common places. The more times you see the goal, the less likely you are to bail on it.
Buy the gear. It might sound silly but investing in some good workout clothes that you like will actually make you more likely to work out. You probably got some Christmas gift cards so put them to good use. Get those neon running shoes you’ve been eyeing and matching outfit, and start your new routine out in style.
Reward yourself. When you start to see changes in your body, treat yourself! No, that doesn’t mean an ice-cream sundae. Instead, when you see that first 10 or 15 pounds come off, indulge in a manicure, a subscription to your favorite fitness magazine or a new workout accessory. That can help motivate you to keep going!
Steve Orlando is the owner of SO FIT Personal Training, with personal training, group fitness and nutrition services. Steve has more than 15 years of industry experience with a wide range of clients.
Set a realistic goal. If you never workout, I wouldn’t suggest committing to seven days a week in the gym. Start out small with something achievable yet challenging without burning yourself out. Try running two days a week and then build up from there. Or commit to taking three fitness classes a week and slowly add in more gym time.
Set reminders. Now that you have your resolution, don’t let yourself forget about it. Set a daily or weekly reminder in your iPhone. Add good old fashioned notes to your bathroom mirror, work desk, next to your car keys and other common places. The more times you see the goal, the less likely you are to bail on it.
Buy the gear. It might sound silly but investing in some good workout clothes that you like will actually make you more likely to work out. You probably got some Christmas gift cards so put them to good use. Get those neon running shoes you’ve been eyeing and matching outfit, and start your new routine out in style.
Reward yourself. When you start to see changes in your body, treat yourself! No, that doesn’t mean an ice-cream sundae. Instead, when you see that first 10 or 15 pounds come off, indulge in a manicure, a subscription to your favorite fitness magazine or a new workout accessory. That can help motivate you to keep going!
Steve Orlando is the owner of SO FIT Personal Training, with personal training, group fitness and nutrition services. Steve has more than 15 years of industry experience with a wide range of clients.