It’s not surprising to hear that according to Nielsen’s Ratings, the top two most popular New Year’s Resolutions are 1- “To Stay Fit and Healthy” and 2- “To Lose Weight”. It’s also not surprising to hear that according to US News and World Report, 80 percent of these resolutions fail. It’s easy to understand why. While many people begin with gusto, things come up and willpower wanes.
Forbes Magazine suggests that failing resolutions have more to do with unmanageable goals rather than with stamina. “Setting ambitious resolutions can be fun and inspiring, but the difficulty in achieving them means that your elation can quickly give way to frustration.”
So what are we to do? Forbes suggests that “goals should be bounded by rational, achievable metrics.” For example, instead of saying “I want to lose weight,” the article continues, “It is much easier to follow a plan that says no potato chips, fries, or ice cream for six weeks.” And instead of stating “I want to work out,” be specific. Plan a few days a week to commit to going to the gym for a finite period of time. If you break these goals into manageable bites, you will be amazed to see how easy it is to achieve them and how tempting it is to keep on going.
And in the spirit of aiming for success, here are some of our favorite ACHIEVABLE New Year’s Resolutions:
1. Seek out a great training partner. “A training partner can help you push harder, keep you accountable and may just make training more fun.” (Muscle and Fitness)
2. Eat more fiber. ”Making sure you eat three servings of fiber a day gets you thinking about the fiber content of foods, and it helps modify your eating patterns without being so overwhelming that you can’t do it.” (Men’s Fitness)
3. Find a routine you can build on. “Sign up for a session of classes where each builds on the next, so you feel obligated to go each week and continue to feel challenged. Plus, after a few weeks in class together, you’ll probably have some new workout friends.” (Fitness Magazine)
4. Combat excuses. “Decide how you will deal with the temptation to skip that exercise class or have that piece of cake. This could include calling on a friend for help, practicing positive thinking and self-talk, or reminding yourself how your “bad” will affect your goal.’ (gaiam.com)
5. Take advantage of great opportunities. Charleston and Mount Pleasant people, be sure to take advantage of our new client (and those members who have been inactive for over 2 months) discount! We are offering $100 off a 2 month unlimited package! New members—if you attend every day—you will be paying less than $3 a class!!! What an awesome way to kick your New Year into gear!
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