The start of a new year often brings a surge of motivation to kickstart healthier habits, with fitness resolutions topping many lists. With that, there is a heaping dose of cynicism around the whole idea of a New Year’s resolution. How many people set lofty goals, only to have those fade out in a few weeks or months? Our goal is to see everyone who joins our gym in Richmond VA not just stick with their New Year’s Resolutions, but thrive.
Turning these resolutions into lasting lifestyle changes requires more than just good intentions. This year, don’t just focus on what you want to achieve – but most importantly WHY you want to achieve it, and the steps you’ll need to take to get there.
Reflect on Your Goals:
Before diving into a new fitness routine, take the time to reflect on your goals. Clearly define what you want to achieve. Do you want to get stronger? Feel better? Achieve some specific fitness goal? Establishing specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals sets a clear roadmap for your fitness journey.
Don’t just set outcome-based goals – consider the steps along the way you’ll need to achieve your desired goals, and make those goals as well. We call those “process goals.”
Create a Realistic Plan:
Crafting a realistic plan is crucial for long-term success. Consider your current fitness level, lifestyle, and schedule. Start with manageable goals, rather than jumping straight into something that seems nearly insurmountable as your first step. Build from there, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.
Prioritize Consistency Over Intensity:
Consistency should be the cornerstone of your fitness journey. Focus on establishing a routine that you can realistically maintain rather than pushing yourself to the limit sporadically. We’ve seen repeatedly that those who are consistently consistent have much more success than those who are hot and cold with their training, nutrition, and lifestyle.
Buddy Up:
Having a workout buddy can be a game-changer in staying accountable and motivated. Find a friend, family member, or coworker who shares your fitness goals. The mutual support that comes with a training partner makes a huge difference. If you’re already a member, get them into the gym for an RVA Fit free trial or invite them to our next Bring a Friend at our Richmond VA gym.
Schedule Your Workouts:
Treat your exercise appointments with the same importance as any other commitment. Block out specific times in your calendar for workouts, making them non-negotiable. Consistent scheduling helps establish a routine, turning fitness into a habit rather than a hit or miss event.
Embrace Progress, Not Perfection:
It’s essential to recognize that progress, no matter how small, is still progress. Don’t be too hard on yourself if you miss a workout. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on continuous improvement. Celebrate your achievements, learn from setbacks, and stay committed to the bigger picture.
Track Your Achievements:
Keep a record of your fitness journey by tracking your achievements. Use the SugarWOD app (if you’re an RVAPT member), where you can record all of your workout progress from Fit and Performance. Both programs have benchmarks you’ll routinely see to make it even easier to track progress over time! For our Barbell members, a simple pen and paper notebook, recording what you do each day goes a long way as you wait for the next heavy single/1RM day.
Celebrating these achievements provides positive reinforcement, fueling your motivation to persist.
Stay Flexible and Adapt:
Life is unpredictable, and obstacles may arise that disrupt your routine. Instead of viewing these challenges as setbacks, see them as opportunities to adapt. Modify your plan when needed, and find alternative ways to stay active, ensuring that your fitness journey remains flexible and accommodating to life’s demands.
Turning your New Year fitness resolutions into reality requires thoughtful planning, dedication, and a positive mindset. Every step forward is a victory on your fitness journey.
RVAPT is a gym in Richmond VA, ready to help you get started with reaching your New Years goals in 2024!