It’s a new year, which means it’s time for everyone to make their New Year’s resolutions! For many people, that involves some form of getting into shape. At StrongTek, we can see that January is always the best month for people to purchase new fitness equipment.
We love helping people start the year off right by targeting their fitness goals. But, unfortunately, people’s enthusiasm for fitness starts to wane as January ends. It’s hard to keep up the same level of energy for a whole year, especially when you encounter hurdles and roadblocks.
It’s time to build a better New Year’s resolution for fitness. Maybe you’ve already given up (or are thinking about it). Perhaps you’re reading this in the future, long past the time when people are talking about New Year’s resolutions. Or maybe you never set a resolution in the first place.
Forget about what’s happened in the past. Consider this moment your new beginning for building a happier, healthier you.
5 Tips for Sticking to Your Resolutions
The problem with resolutions is that they seem absolute. For example, if you resolve to exercise five times a week, then skip out the third week of January, you’re likely to think you’re a failure and give up entirely.
Instead of setting resolutions, the key is to set goals for yourself. Then, if you falter, you can just pick yourself back up and keep going.
Follow these five tips for setting (and sticking to) fitness goals in 2022.
- Set small attainable goals
Big goals take time, so we often get frustrated when we don’t see instant progress. You’re not going to lose 50 pounds, run a marathon, or be able to do the splits overnight. It’s going to take a series of small steps to get there.
So, instead of focusing only on your big goal, set small goals you can definitely reach. For example, set a goal to do 50 pushups every day. That’s a goal you can easily reach, especially if you break it down into smaller bursts. Do 10 pushups in the morning, 10 mid-morning, 10 at lunch, 10 after work, and 10 at night. Easy! This small goal will add up to noticeable results in three months.
- Use data to drive you
Keep track of your progress on an app, smartwatch, or simple pen and paper. Monitor the metrics that matter to you, such as your weight, time spent exercising, how many steps you take, etc.
Check your data weekly and monthly. Over time, you’ll start to notice patterns. When you feel your motivation fading, look back at how far you’ve come. You can’t give up now!
- Join a fitness group
Trying to hit a significant fitness goal alone can be challenging. Find a fitness group, either online or in-person, to motivate you. If you go to the gym, take a group fitness class.
Working with a group has several benefits. First, there’s a social aspect, which makes fitness more fun. It’s easier to talk yourself into a 6 am spin class when you know you have friends waiting for you. Then, there’s the motivation aspect. You’ll work harder in your spin class when you’re competing with others than you would on your own. Many apps allow you to join groups virtually so you can get the same benefits from home.
- Make adjustments
You won’t know what works until you try it. For instance, maybe you thought you could make it to that 6 am spin class three times a week, but you’re barely able to talk yourself into it once a week.
Don’t keep trying to do the same thing if it’s not working! Instead, switch to an evening class or skip spin altogether and try something new. Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t stick with the plan you set back in January. Instead, recognize that something isn’t working for you and make adjustments.
- Don’t forget about the balance
Our minds often go to cardio or strength training when we think of fitness. But don’t forget about the importance of balance and stability to keep your mind and body healthy.
The great thing about balance exercises is that you can do them anywhere and anytime. Just a few minutes a day will help you strengthen your core, legs, and ankles to prevent falls and injuries. As a result, you’ll have better posture and be better prepared for your next workout.
Get Fit This Year with StrongTek
No matter your fitness goals, we’re here to help you reach them! Shop our store to find all the fitness equipment you need to get stronger and become more flexible this year.