How to Accomplish Your Fitness New Year’s Resolution

New Year’s resolutions have become a tradition for many of us as we bid farewell to the old and welcome the new. Among the number of goals we set, fitness New Year’s resolutions often take priority. 

If you’re one of the many who are determined to make the new year the one you achieve your fitness dreams, this article will explore the best strategies to not only set those New Year fitness goals but stick to them throughout the year. Whether it’s hitting the gym, eating healthier or staying motivated, we’ve got you covered.

1. SETTING YOUR FITNESS NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS GOALS

KNOW YOUR WHY

As you begin working on your New Year’s fitness goals, start by figuring out the why behind what you want to accomplish. If, for example, you want to lose weight, is it because you want to improve your health or are you trying to improve your physique? A strong why will keep you motivated and focused after your initial enthusiasm for working toward your fitness goals wears off. Make sure your why truly inspires you. Keep it close to your heart as you figure out your exercise goals and establish a workout plan.

SET SMART GOALS 

Ever wonder why so many people struggle to keep up with their New Year’s health resolutions? One big reason is that they don’t develop SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound). 

• BE SPECIFIC 

Instead of saying, “I want to lose weight,” set a goal like, “I want to lose 20 pounds by the end of 2024.” Specific goals are easier to work toward.

• MAKE THEM MEASURABLE

Your resolutions should be quantifiable, enabling you to track your progress. You could measure your success in pounds lost, inches off your waist or the number of pull-ups you can do, to name a few.

• SET ATTAINABLE GOALS

While ambition is admirable, setting unattainable goals can lead to frustration and disappointment. Make sure your resolutions are challenging but within your reach. It’s better to exceed expectations than to fall short.

• GIVE YOURSELF A DEADLINE

Establishing a deadline creates a sense of urgency and commitment. When you have a specific timeframe, you’re more likely to stay focused and on track.

WRITE YOUR GOALS DOWN 

Jotting down your fitness New Year’s resolutions makes them more tangible. It also holds you accountable. Share your goals with a friend or family member who can provide support and encouragement.

Put your goals somewhere you can regularly see them. Write them on a sticky note and post them on your bathroom mirror or on the fridge. Make your goals the screensaver on your phone or computer. Post them on your social media channels. 

By keeping your fitness goals in front of your eyes, you’ll stay focused and motivated to achieve them. 

Some good examples of SMART goals are: 

• My gym New Year resolution for 2024 is to lose 4 pounds a month for 5 months, adding up to 20 pounds lost by May.
• I will run three miles in 30 minutes by June 1st.
• My goal is to perform a set of three squats at 200 pounds by April.
• This year, I will do a half-hour of yoga every Tuesday and Thursday before work for the entire year.

Making sure your New Year fitness goals are SMART goals helps to track them more effectively.

MEASURE YOUR PROGRESS

How will you know if you’re on track to achieve your New Year’s health resolutions if you don’t regularly check your progress? When you are developing your workout plan, make sure to build in mechanisms to track your progress. Step on the scale once a week or once a month or test your capacity by performing a baseline workout or doing a weighted lift to see if you are getting faster or stronger.

Technology also makes it easy to measure your progress. Smartphone apps, smartwatches and other devices let you track your nutrition, your heart rate during workouts, even the quality of your sleep. Some apps even reward you for meeting specific goals and challenges. For example, the EōS Mobile App keeps users motivated with friendly competition and challenges where participants can win prizes. 

2. INCORPORATING HEALTHY EATING

A vital component of any successful fitness resolution is a balanced diet. You can work out hard, but if your nutrition isn’t aligned with your goals, you might struggle to see results. Here’s how to incorporate healthy eating into your fitness journey:

• Meal Planning 

Plan your meals in advance to ensure you have nutritious options readily available. Include a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains in your diet.

• Portion Control 

Watch your portion sizes, as overeating can undermine your fitness goals. Learn to listen to your body and eat mindfully.

• Stay Hydrated

Adequate hydration is crucial for overall health. Drink plenty of water throughout the day and consider incorporating herbal teas and infused water to make hydration more enjoyable.

• Avoid Processed Foods

Minimize your intake of processed foods, which are often high in sugar, salt and unhealthy fats. Opt for whole, unprocessed foods whenever possible. When you eat clean, you are nourishing your body with nutrient-dense foods that provide a wide array of nutrients.

• Treat Yourself Occasionally

Deprivation rarely leads to long-term success. It’s okay to enjoy your favorite treats in moderation. This can help you stay on track and avoid feelings of restriction.

Expert nutrition guidance is also a great way to kickstart your health journey. Getting a nutrition plan that is curated for you will help set you up for long-term success.

3. STAYING MOTIVATED THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

Staying motivated is often the most challenging part of accomplishing your fitness New Year’s resolutions. Here are some strategies to keep you on the path to success:

• Find a Workout Buddy 

Having a workout partner can make exercising more enjoyable and hold you accountable. It’s easier to stick to your resolutions when you have someone to share the journey with.

• Set Milestone Goals

Break your big resolution into smaller, achievable milestones. Celebrating these smaller victories along the way can provide a continuous sense of accomplishment.

• Build In Flexibility 

Things will not always work out as planned, so make sure to integrate flexibility into your workout plan. Can’t get a sitter for the kids? Consider a gym near you with childcare. Try on-demand virtual classes or other home workouts. 

• Mix It Up 

Variety keeps things exciting and fresh. Don’t be afraid to change things up occasionally to prevent fitness plateaus. Try different Group Fitness Classes, surround yourself with a fitness community of like-minded gym-goers and discover new workouts that you might love.

• Reward Yourself 

As you reach your milestones, treat yourself to non-food rewards. Whether it’s a spa day, a new workout outfit or a weekend getaway, these rewards can serve as motivation.

• Remember Why You Started 

Whenever you feel your motivation waning, remind yourself why you set your fitness New Year’s resolutions in the first place. Visualize the healthier, fitter version of yourself that you’re striving to become.

• Stay Positive

You created fitness New Year’s resolutions because you want to improve your life. Start by believing in yourself and your ability to achieve your New Year fitness goals. Remember, the New Year can be anything that you make of it. Focus on the positive, practice self-care and gratitude for all that you have and celebrate your progress on your goals.

IS HIRING A PERSONAL TRAINER RIGHT FOR YOU?

While setting fitness New Year’s resolutions is a great start, sometimes you may need a little extra help to stay on track. That’s where a Personal Trainer can come in handy.

• Who Needs A Personal Trainer

If you’re new to fitness, have specific goals or simply need some extra motivation, a Personal Trainer can be a valuable resource. The Certified Personal Trainers at EōS can tailor workouts to your needs and provide expert guidance. Interested in learning more about Personal Training? Book your Complimentary Welcome Workout at EōS Fitness today!

• Accountability

One of the biggest advantages of having a Personal Trainer is accountability. Knowing that someone is expecting you at the gym or tracking your progress can be a powerful motivator.

• Expertise

Personal Trainers are experts in their field. They can ensure you perform exercises correctly to avoid injury and help you reach your goals more efficiently.

• Customized Workouts

Personal Trainers can design workouts that are specifically tailored to your fitness level, preferences and objectives. This personalization can lead to quicker progress and a more rewarding experience.

NEW YEAR’S 2024 GYM MEMBERSHIPS

Uncertain about how to kickstart your New Year’s health resolutions? EōS Fitness offers comprehensive support for your journey towards improved health and wellness in the upcoming year. With services like Personal Training and access to a wide range of gym amenities, including strength equipment and Group Fitness Classes, EōS Fitness is dedicated to helping its Members achieve their New Year fitness objectives and enhance their overall well-being.

Get started on your fitness goals in 2024 by taking advantage of the Complimentary 7-Day Pass at your nearest EōS location.