Blog: Keeping Your Resolution to Get Fit in 2012

The New Year is here. No doubt many of you have made resolutions to get in shape and/or lose weight this year.  If you consider your resolution to be like a cross country roadtrip you can enjoy the journey to your goal.

Make a Plan - If you were about to embark on a cross country roadtrip you would map out your route ahead of time.  You would determine the best route to follow and stops along the way.  Likewise, take the time to determine how you will achieve your fitness goals this year.  Will you go to the gym, exercise at home, join a class?  The most effective exercise will be the one that you consistently do.  In other words, it should be something you will enjoy (or at least tolerate) and something that will fit into the demands of your lifestyle.  If you are pressed for time, don’t start an exercise program that entails 20 minutes of travel time each way.

What diet plan will you follow on your weight loss journey?  There are endless choices of diets that will work.  Each diet out there purports that it has the secret to effective weight loss.  The key is to find one that you will be able to stick with.  You will be less likely to cheat and more likely to stay with your diet plan long term if you choose a plan that you will be able to stick with.                                         

Set Realistic Goals - Chances are pretty good that your current physical state didn’t happen overnight.  The reality is that weight loss takes time.  Most people who stick to a sensible exercise and diet plan can expect to lose 1-2 pounds a week.  All too often people set the bar too high and give up by February because their goals seemed insurmountable.

Keep it Fun - For someone who gets motion sickness, a roadtrip through curvy mountain roads would not be enjoyable.  Likewise, on your fitness journey you will be most successful if you can find an exercise you enjoy.  If you hate the treadmill and are not a morning person, then you will most likely not stick with an exercise plan if it includes getting up at 4:30am to get on the treadmill before work.  There are plenty of options out there.  Find one that will be fun!

Stay With It - Don’t let a setback (like too many wings on SuperBowl Sunday) become the thing that stops you in your tracks.  Start fresh the next day and don’t let your slipup turn into a habit.  The only way to reach your goal is to keep moving forward, you will never get anywhere standing still. 

Consult a Professional - A fitness professional can guide you through the bumps on the road in your fitness journey.   Not only can a fitness professional give you guidance on the ins and outs of exercise, but we can offer help in setting realistic goals and keeping you motivated and accountable as you travel toward your goal.