It is certainly that time of the year once more! We’ve all had to, or are currently combating the results of feasting during the numerous family meals of the holiday season. While it is a blessing to have access to such great meals and family time, it is all too easy to overindulge. A whole year’s worth of strict diet and exercise doesn’t have to be completely overthrown by just a few months.
Start Small
So how exactly can you stick to those New Year’s resolutions in the face of infinite temptation? As they say, it certainly won’t be easy, but nothing worth it ever is! However, that’s not to say you can’t make it easier on yourself to succeed. Here are some tips to help you persevere and remain on the path towards a healthier year, and ultimately, a healthier life!
It may seem trite, but often times quitting something cold turkey is the best way to assure you’ll fall off the bandwagon within a few weeks. If your resolution is to go to the gym every other day but you can’t quite remember the last time you went, you may be putting yourself up for too much too soon. It is a great goal to get to eventually; however starting off too strong is the number one way people end up faltering on their fitness goals. Don’t be embarrassed to start with just once a week – it will make building up to your ultimate target that much more satisfying!
Put Yourself in the Right Environment
If you’re fighting a little too hard to keep to your resolution, take a moment to consider what’s immediately around you. Keep a set of small dumbbells in your living room, or make sure a piece of workout equipment, such as a rowing machine is in view! Stowing away your workout gear keeps them out of sight, and certainly out of mind. Set your gym shoes beside the door and put an inspirational photo of someone running on your work desk. You’ll be amazed at how simple yet effective these little actions will be for keeping you on track!
Write It Down, Be Specific
An ambiguous goal such as “lose weight”, “get healthier”, or “stop eating out”, holds far less weight than “lose 5 pounds by February 1st, “go to the gym 3 times a week”, and “cook at home Monday-Thursday”. By specifying exactly what needs to be done to get to meet your objective, you make it easier on yourself. Instead of trying to figure out what you’re going to eat for dinner that’s not fast food, you know it’s Tuesday and that means baked tilapia and fresh vegetables. Writing these plans helps to solidify them, and thinking ahead helps you clear up the precious mental space you need to focus on other things.
Get Creative
You’re not going to want to stick to your gym schedule if you opt for the same exercises every time you visit. Switch up your routine and try out something new each time – this will help you discover which workout you truly love doing, so that way you can incorporate that one into your schedule more often. If you find running at the gym is taking a toll on your mental health, get outside! Go for a morning run in the park or along a body of water and see how much further you can go when you try something new!
These are only just a few ways to help you stick to your New Year’s resolution this year! At Home Fitness Warehouse, we have thousands of workout products and equipment to get you moving and keep you there. Join us for the Resolution Revolution today!