Making – and Sticking to – Healthy New Year’s Resolutions

It’s that time of year again where everyone makes that New Year’s resolution to get in better shape. Sticking with it is the most difficult part.

Some 100-million Americans will make New Year’s resolutions, most of which focus on health goals such as working out or losing weight. However, about four out of every five people who make resolutions fail to keep them mostly due to lack of accountability and not having a workable plan of action.

Setting attainable and realistic goals is the key in making sure your New Year’s fitness goals don’t flame out by February or March. If you’re a sedentary person and you set a goal of working out every day for at least an hour and you haven’t done anything for 15 years, you’re likely not going to stick with it. What you want to do there is set a goal to work out two to three times a week for 30 minutes a span. That’s a small goal. And then add a third day, a fourth day, down the road.
Starting with small goals goes a long way in helping a person reach their bigger New Year’s resolution, particularly those who get discouraged if they don’t see immediate results. If you just have one big goal, you’re going to be a little overwhelmed. Being consistent is key. Find a physical activity you enjoy, such as taking a kickboxing class or pick up a spin class. Create a circle of support around you to assist you in maintaining your resolution. Have a game plan to help you reach your goals. If you don’t know where to start, talk to a fitness expert in our club to help you create a plan of action. It's no joke, our fitness experts get real results. Personal training or one on one instruction is not just for the rich and famous and here at Nonstop Fitness, we have the proof.

In regards to fitness and resolutions, it’s important to remember it’s about a lifestyle change. You can’t get into it and say you’re going to lose so many pounds in three months and then go back to your old lifestyle or all of the weight you lost will come right back.

Making – and Sticking to – Healthy New Year’s Resolutions

Plan on getting in shape in 2010? Here are some tips to help you succeed.

Cut back, don’t cut out. Don’t set yourself up for failure by making certain foods off limits. It’s wiser to cut back on those items so you won’t feel deprived. You’re more likely to stay on your diet that way.

Make fitness fun. Find a physical activity you enjoy, from walking, hiking, jogging, dancing, swimming and most importantly, you must incorporate strength training at least a minimum of twice a week in order to NOT lose muscle mass. The important thing is to get your body moving on a regular basis.

strong>Say no to stress. Stress can adversely impact your health. Keep a positive attitude, learn relaxation techniques, exercise regularly and eat well-balanced meals and get sufficient sleep.

Keep this in mind, a vision without action is just daydreaming.

Wishing you all a very Happy New Year! Make 2010 your year!!

Veronica