Set Specific But Realistic Goals
If you are brand new to any kind of fitness program, setting a goal of going to the gym everyday may not be the most attainable goal. By setting unreasonable goals for yourself, you are setting yourself up for failure. Consider increasing your goals as the year goes along. For example, in January set a goal of going to the gym or exercising two days a week, increase to three days a week after a few months, and then four, etc.
Give Yourself an Off Day
Your body needs time to rest and recover so factor this into your resolutions. Even if you are a fitness junkie, schedule in a slower-paced day. Maybe just a short stroll with a friend.
Try a Group Fitness Class
Group fitness classes are a great way to stay accountable. It’s one thing to go to a gym and hop on a treadmill but chances are nobody will know if you skip a day. But, group fitness classes tend to have regulars who will know if you aren’t there. This kind of accountability can be very helpful in maintaining fitness goals. The Gardendale Civic Center has numerous fitness class options throughout the day for each and every fitness level. Classes are only $3.00 apiece or $35 a month for unlimited classes and no membership is required, so they are extremely affordable. 10-41 Strength & Conditioning is in the process of building a brand new facility and will be offering multiple group fitness class options to their members as well. Click on the links below to check out what the Gardendale Civic Center and 10-41 have to offer.
Allow Yourself Grace
80% of New Year’s resolutions fail by the second week of February. Often when we miss a day, we consider it a failure and give up altogether. But, along the same lines as setting realistic goals, you need to allow yourself some grace. Not so much that we defeat the purpose of the resolution altogether (bringing about change) but enough that you don’t quit altogether if you miss a day. If 2020 taught us anything it is that we don’t always have control of our circumstances or situation. After all, life happens. Design your goals so that missing a single day does not equate to failure.
Get an Accountability Partner
Maybe group fitness classes are intimidating to you, but you still desire that kind of accountability. Find a friend who would be willing to partner with you to reach your goals. It could be agreeing to meet at the gym for workouts, walk together in the afternoons, or even as simple as a text at the end of the day to let them know you exercised.
