The time for new years resolutions is almost upon us and for a lot of people, getting in better shape than they already are and/or improving their health is high on their list.
Out goes the alcohol in the form of ‘Dry January’, the chocolate and cakes get cut back and a new gym membership gets purchased (Or they actually start using the one that they’ve got!).
And while I’m not really a fan of new years resolutions as I believe that if you want to change something about yourself that badly then you should do it right away, it’s a good little motivator for some people as actually starting something is quite often one of the hardest things.
Here’s a short guide to getting yourself in shape in the new year:
Decide on your goals and plan from there – You probably already know what your general fitness goal next year will be, but it’s important to get specific with it so you can you track your progress effectively so you know what you’re doing is actually working.
Seeing progress and results is the best way to keep motivation going and to keep you adhering to your training and diet.
Be realistic with yourself – Is training for 2 hours a day 7 days a week really that sustainable?
Are you really not going to eat any biscuits, cakes or crisps for the whole of 2020?
Probably not!
Make sure your training and diet is flexible and fits around your schedule – the gym is there to better your life not consume it! For most people, 3-4 sessions a week is plenty.
Set small goals along with your big goals – losing 2 stone might be a good 12 month goal but what about the first 3 months, the first month or even the first week?
Set smaller weight loss goals for example throughout the year to make the overall joinery more manageable and set easy to reach goals so you get the feeling of accomplishment such as going to the gym 3 times in the first week etc.
If you’re not sure what you should be doing then ask for help or research – Ask one of the trainers at your gym for a few tips and (If they’re decent) they’ll be happy to help!
You could buy a programme off them or even look at starting up PT sessions (Getting yourself a good PT is one of the best investments you can make in yourself (Not my words!)) or there is this magical thing called Google and everything you could ever want to know about fitness is right at your finger tips 24/7.
Track your food even for the first few weeks or so – Trust me, using something like MyFitnessPal will make you realise exactly how much you’re eating.
Summary
And there you have it, your short guide to getting in shape in the new year! Now it’s all well and good me saying all of this, but it’s up to you and only you to make it happen!
Don’t let this be another failed new years resolution!
Want to kick start things in 2020? Email adam@acmfit.com for details on Personal Training, Online Coaching or the brand new Lean Life Challenge - an 8 week fitness programme designed to kick start your new year!