Rosario
Colomba MAT, CSCS
Personal
training Manager - Xanadu Health Club
Sticking to New Years Resolutions is
usually the biggest obstacle people face. You manage to stay pretty
disciplined for about a month and then life slowly takes over.
Before you know it, you are already looking forward to breaking that
bad habit next year.
When it comes to choosing exercise as
a New Years Resolution it is important to set goals. The reason we
set goals is because it gives us something to work towards. We have
all heard about the entrepreneur that writes himself a million dollar
check with the hopes that one day he will cash it. Therefore, think
about what you would like to achieve through that exercise routine,
write it down, and then start building towards your goal.
Ultimately, you would be much better off setting mini-goals along the
way to avoid burning yourself out and preventing injury. For
example, if your goal is to lose 30 pounds, aim to lose 1-2 pounds
per week. If you want to participate in a marathon, gradually
increase your running distance on a weekly basis until you have
reached your desired amount. All to often people set unrealistic
goals and end up abandoning their resolutions too soon. Temper your
expectations and the results will come with consistency and a
positive outlook.
Hiring a personal trainer can also
assist with helping you to achieve your goals. A personal trainer
will be able to monitor your progress and at the right times increase
the intensity of the workout. They can keep the workout interesting
by changing the exercises and introducing you to new and innovating
ways of working out. Lastly, a personal trainer will keep you
accountable. Having an appointment scheduled will help you get to
the gym on those days you otherwise wouldn't go. In addition to a
personal trainer, having a workout partner is another way to stay
motivated. Working out with a familiar face can be comforting to
those who are new to health clubs. Additionally, sticking to that
diet will be much easier if the whole family is on board. Once you
have stated your goals and your family is supportive, the quicker you
can get rid of the shelves of potato chips and cookies.
Now here comes the fun part. In
addition to setting a long-term goal, think of a way you will reward
yourself. For example, taking a family portrait or going on a
shopping spree once you lost those 30 lbs. What about signing up for
a marathon in a tropical destination? These are all great options to
accompany your exercise goal.
For more ideas on how to reward
yourself check out the weekly newsletter.
