How’s Your 2018 Fitness Resolution Going?

If you resolved to make 2018 the year you get fit, you’re not alone. However, if you’re like most people, you may find that sticking to that resolution is harder than you thought it would be. Let’s face it, old habits are hard to break and finding the motivation to make it to the jogging trail, gym or Pilates classes can be especially tough on those cold, gray days when all you really want to do is curl up in front of the fire with a good book. Here are some simple things that can increase the odds of keeping your fitness resolution. #1 Start with Realistic Goalsr Getting physically fit is an admirable goal, but depending on your current condition, it can also be one that takes some time to achieve.Setting your goals too high and expecting immediate results is a recipe for failure. Instead of setting a goal of exercising every day, try every other day or even twice a week and increase the frequency over time. Instead of an hour of strenuous activity, try starting off with lighter, shorter workouts and increase the intensity and duration over the course of a few weeks or even months. #2 Put Your Money Where Your Mouth Is Making a financial investment in your physical fitness will help you stay committed. You don’t have to go crazy with this one but investing in some basic workout equipment, jogging shoes or an affordable fitness club membership can help you stay motivated. The only thing worse than feeling out of shape is feeling out of shape and financially irresponsible! #3 Enlist the Help and Support of Othersr Pretty much any goal is easier to attain if others are pulling for you to succeed. Tell your friends and family about your fitness resolution and ask them to help hold you accountable. While some so-called friends may scoff, those who truly want the best for you will be supportive. One of the best ways to do this is by joining you on your fitness journey. You might be surprised by how many family members, friends and coworkers have the same goal, so don’t be shy – tell the world! Even if you have to go it alone in the beginning, engaging in any kind of fitness activity will open up new opportunities to make friendships with like-minded people who share your goals and aspirations for a healthier, happier life. #4Variety is the Spice of Lifer Researchers at the American Council on Exercise have found that people who mix up their workout routines have a much better chance of sticking with it over the long haul. Instead of spending all your time at the gym, you might want to consider alte ating weight training with jogging, swimming, cycling or yoga. In addition to keeping you from getting bored with the same old routine, engaging in a variety of physical activities can help you avoid the dreaded weight loss plateaus that often derail people from achieving their goals. #5 Monitor Your Progressr Keeping track of the improvements you’ve made is a good way to stay motivated. But like everything else in life, moderation is the key. Focusing too much on your day to day progress can sometimes cause you to become discouraged if the results aren’t what you’re expecting. So, instead of charting your weight, measurements, and endurance on a daily basis, try comparing your progress on a weekly or even monthly basis. Remember, becoming physically fit is a marathon not a sprint and there will undoubtedly be ups and downs along the way.