by Sue Williams, Fit4All Training –
We have all made them – they are born out of great intention of a fresh start and a new beginning, with determination that self-improvement is around the corner … the New Year’s Resolution. Year after year, the top of the list is to exercise more, but despite the best of intentions once the glow of a fresh start wears off and life takes over, many people struggle to make good on their plans. Running shoes are left sitting in the closet and the fancy piece of gym equipment you got from Santa becomes an expensive clothesline.
The new year feels like a new beginning, which is why people often set lofty resolutions during this time, leading them to bite off more than they can chew. If we can continue to chase our goals, we can come out with great opportunities to overcome struggles with willpower and determination when it comes to exercise.
To Start, Choose Joy. Let’s be honest: at one time or another we have been obligated to participate in something that we really don’t want to, and we dread having to go do it. The key to sticking to an exercise program is finding an activity that you look forward to, feel good while you are doing it, feel even better when it’s done and then look forward to doing all over again. Exercise is uncomfortable but you need it to be tolerable, so your best chance for lasting change is to choose something that you do not dread doing. If you dislike an exercise, you are less likely to do it again. Find something that lights you up!
Be Accountable. Register for a class or an event. When you pay up front you are more likely to go. We work too hard for our money to throw it away by not showing up. Tell your friends and family what you are doing – when you say something aloud you’re more likely to stay the course. Knowing that someone is cheering for you is a powerful motivator.
Find Your Support System. The support system looks different for everyone: for some it’s a friend with the same goal, or hiring a trainer to keep you on track. For others it’s joining a gym, taking classes or meeting a walking, running or hiking group. When getting active with your workout buddies, people often find they work harder and longer … with the bonus that it’s more fun to share pain, sweat and tears with others.
Set Realistic Goals. If your goal is to run a marathon but you have never run before, start with five kilometres, and work your way up. If you absolutely love burpees (said no one ever) and want to do 100 of them before your first sip of coffee, maybe start by strengthening your core first … you get the idea.
Be Kind to Yourself. When it comes to exercise, consistency is important, but life is life and with any exercise regime you will have setbacks, whether it’s injury, work/life balance, or boredom. There will be times when you simply do not want to do anything. Remember: taking a little break from a resolution does not mean that you have failed and you won’t achieve your goals. It is completely normal to face challenges along the way. Listen to your body, and take the breaks you need to recharge and keep moving!
