Here we are in a new year with new goals. Many of us include some type of fitness goal that becomes a memory within a matter of weeks. We start out with the best of intentions but find them unfulfilled by the time we reach the end of the year. We can name a myriad of reasons (or excuses) why we start out with so much enthusiasm and then revert to previous behavior patterns.
Seems like everyone (in some form) wants to do something that factors in fitness, health, and physical improvements. And advertisers know this as well. Have you noticed the endless commercials promoting the latest program or piece of fitness equipment that promises to propel your body transformation?
A new program or piece of equipment may seem like the perfect answer for meeting your goals. But, if your goals are not specific, sustainable, or are based on unrealistic expectations, you are setting yourself up to be disappointed.
Let’s breakdown some of the more common fallacies regarding fitness goals that will hopefully set you on the right path to sticking to your fitness resolution this year!
Create a Plan Based on Sustainable Actions
So, you’re all geared up to charge headfirst into a year full of quality workouts, clean eating, and endless workout selfies. You’ve purchased a new pair of sports shoes, armed yourself with the latest trend in fitness wear, and maybe even bought some sleek new headphones.
But do you have a plan for structuring your workout and diet routine? It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of envisioning a body that’s more fit and there’s nothing wrong with that. Sometimes that type of excitement can lead to efforts of making drastic changes to your lifestyle.
Thinking that you will work out 7 days a week and cut all junk food from your diet may sound like a good idea, but usually unsustainable in the long run. Change is hard. That’s why it’s important to ease into the process if long-lasting results are your goal.
Start with small goals and work on consistency so you can expand them further. For instance, add a workout routine 2-3 times per week and gradually increase the time and/or frequency, steadily boost your daily water intake, and only give in to indulgences on the weekends.
Be Willing to Commit to the Long Haul
Don’t be fooled by media hype! Physical transformations and noticeable results will not happen overnight. Nothing is further from the truth and buying into these ideas will only leave you feeling discouraged and burnt out. According to Ramsey Bergeron, a certified personal trainer, “it usually takes 4 weeks for your friends to notice weight loss and 6–8 weeks for you to notice.” Yes, you will marvel at the transformation of your body, and a sound understanding of the effort and time required will help you stay committed to achieving your fitness goals.
Make Your Fitness Goals Fun for Consistency
Consistency will be the biggest determining factor of your success in any goal you set for yourself, especially when it comes to fitness. Without consistency, no matter what workout routine you choose, or diet plan you follow, your desired results won’t be forthcoming.
Make your fitness journey enjoyable. As humans, we tend to avoid unpleasant experiences. Find out what motivates you to remain consistent. It will take discipline. You can be disciplined, work hard, and still have fun. Constantly remind yourself of the rewards: a stronger body, new clothes, improved physical, mental, and emotional health, or whatever your reason is for embarking on this journey.
We tend to make time for the things that are important to us. If your fitness goals are important to you, you will find a way to achieve them. Just be sure that your goals are specific, sustainable, or based on realistic expectations.