Cropped image of a man in a gym using the PowerBlock adjustable dumbbells to do bicep curls.

Making Your 2022 Resolutions Stick

Getting in shape is one of the most common resolutions that people set for themselves at the beginning of a new year. Even more common is that many of these people fail and then seek out the expertise of a trainer like myself.

A few weeks into every new year, I have an uptick in new client consults and many have the same back story. They tried to get fit on their own, but can’t seem to stay on track. This happens for lots of reasons, but it just takes some restructuring to help alleviate the problem. Here are 5 ways to help you stick to your resolutions and increase your chances of success.

 

Don’t overcommit.

Optimism is great, but you also need to be realistic about what you can accomplish. You need to decide what you are willing to commit to in order to reach your goals. Have an honest conversation with yourself, taking into consideration all factors that will affect your ability to do the things you need to do consistently.

 

Ditch the “all or nothing” mindset.

This approach is rarely helpful, and in many cases will reduce your chances of reaching your goals. Don’t allow yourself to fall into the mindset of “If I can’t do it all, I’m not doing anything”. Remember that any healthy eating habits are better than none, and any exercise you do is better than sitting on the couch all day.

 

Make healthy habits as easy as possible.

I see so many people failing because they set unrealistic expectations or overcomplicate their methods. Learn to make your healthy habits  as easy to adhere to as possible. If you struggle with consistently getting to the gym that’s 20 minutes away, invest in some PowerBlock Dumbbells and work out at home. If you struggle with your nutrition and meal prep, try a healthy meal delivery subscription service. Removing potential obstacles doesn’t make you lazy, it means you recognize your challenges and are addressing them.

 

Ask for accountability.

Being held accountable to someone other than yourself will increase your chances of sticking to your program and eating habits. It’s much more difficult to blow off your nutrition plan when you know someone is going to ask how things are going. You’re far less likely to skip the gym if someone is meeting you there to exercise. Be sure to ask someone you trust who can hold you accountable in a firm, but non judgmental way.

 

Make one change at a time.

There’s an inverse relationship between the number of changes attempted and success rates. This means the more you try to change, the less likely you are to be successful. Avoid becoming overwhelmed and make one change at a time before you add something else. Working on one thing until it becomes a habit will establish that healthy behavior as a part of your daily life and then, you’re ready to add another. There’s no need to overhaul your entire life in a single day. The longer road is less appealing, but more realistic for most.

 

 

Email [email protected] with any comments, questions, or concerns.  Or if you are interested in becoming a blog contributor.

About the Author:

Chris Proctor, contributing blogger

Chris helps people reach their fitness goals. He’s been a coach since 2009, has a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Medicine and certifications from NSCA and NPTI. He live in New Hampshire (Live free or die) with his wife Keira, their son Wes, and their daughter Serena.

Website: http://www.chrisproctorwellness.com