Did you allow yourself to indulge more than usual this holiday? If so, you may be tempted to set lofty fitness resolutions because you want quick weight-loss results.
Well, get real! Setting goals that are too lofty is not only bad for your health; it’s also bad for your success rate. Life Fitness and Fitness Town explains that you must first set realistic goals and focus your efforts on the reachable stepping stones.
Find the balance between lofty and realistic. Setting a goal to lose 20 pounds in two weeks is lofty; giving yourself two to three months to take off 20 pounds is more attainable. Aim for a two-pound weight loss per week, and try to think in only two-pound increments so you don’t get overwhelmed.
Be proud of your progress for every two pounds you lose and you will steadily reach your goal!
Know who you are and how you work. Achieving your goals is often tied to self-awareness. If you haven’t been working out at all, don’t make a resolution to work out daily – be more realistic and aim for three times a week at first. Once you are routinely exercising three times a week, take it up to four.
It’s all about setting yourself up for wins so you don’t get defeated.
Small changes lead to big results. Set small goals that you build upon, one at a time. For example, this month aim to add strength training to your routine; next month try a new piece of fitness equipment; the following month try a new fitness class each week.
Before you know it, you will have multiple healthy habits and great options for staying motivated this New Year. Remember, keeping fit is a lifetime pursuit and doesn’t have to be accomplished overnight.
