How to Break from Breaking Your New Year’s Resolutions

A New Year’s Resolution is a tradition that dates back to ancient Rome.  The intent is for self-improvement and betterment.  One of the most popular resolutions is to lose weight and/or exercise more.  Unfortunately, it’s often viewed as a “to do” list that can be completed before Valentine’s Day.

According to research, only 8% of Americans keep their resolutions. 

It is to your benefit to set goals, but if the goals are too lofty, success is off too far in the distance  and it will result in another broken New Year’s Resolution.  What is the solution to successful fitness and weight loss goals?

S.M.A.R.T Goal Setting: 

Be Specific!

You must identify the action or goal that will take place.
Example:  I will join a gym and lose weight.  NOT—I’m going to get in shape.  But let’s take it further…

Measurable

The action/goal should be quantifiable
Example:  I am going to join Weight Loss Fitness and lose 50 pounds.  NOT—I’m just going to lose some weight.   But let’s take it another step…

Achievable

The action/goal should be attainable given available resources.
Example:  I’m going to lose 50 pounds by going to CFWLS Fitness Center 4 times a week after work.  NOT—I’m going to lose 50 pounds by running errands and cleaning the house once a week. But wait, let’s tweak it again…

Realistic

The action/goal should allow you to step out of your comfort zone while allowing the likelihood of success.
Example:  I will lose 50 pounds and reduce my body fat by 5% by doing the Hoist Equipment two times a week and the rower and/or treadmill for 20 minutes, 3 times a week.  NOT—I will lose 50 pounds and reduce my body fat by 5% by walking on the treadmill a few times a week.

Time-bound

You need to state a time period to be accomplished.
Example:  I will lose 50 pounds and reduce my body fat by 5% by ‘July 4th, 2016’. I will work out on the Hoist Equipment two times a week and the rower and/or treadmill for 20 minutes, 3 times a week.  NOT—I will lose 50 pounds and reduce my body fat by 5% by walking on the treadmill a few times a week.

*If you can’t make it to the gym, exercise at home—jumping jacks, squats, lunges, push-ups, stairs!                                             *Just give it 15 minutes if you can’t commit to more than that!
*Walk as much as possible.  Take the stairs instead of the elevator. It makes a difference!
*Get rid of all the holiday junk food—it’s too tempting.  Increase protein with our Weight & Inches Shakes which can assist you in shedding those extra holiday pounds.

Determine what your goal is and visualize yourself achieving it. Write down your goal where you can see it every day.  Think positively and use the SMART goal-setting.  2016 is the year to make that New Year’s Resolution stick!