Although it may be a bit predictable and cliché for me to talk about New Year’s resolutions, I just can’t help but feel this is a very important and
timely topic.
What does this have to do with health and fitness? Other than losing weight and getting fit being common re-offenders at the top of many resolutions lists, I know that often there is an element of depression that comes with failing to achieve goals.
Many people, after having a ‘bad’ year, find a way to cope and push through the tough times by clinging to the hope that next year has got to be better. Then they set themselves up for an immediate fail in the New Year by setting unrealistic goals.
Having a holistic approach to health and fitness means that I do everything within my power (and my scope of practice) to ensure my clients are healthy both physically and mentally. It’s a main focus of mine to do my best to help improve the quality of life of those in my sphere. Obviously I do this most by helping clients find a body that is fitter, stronger and they are generally happier and more confident with. I also encourage my clients to do the things needed to improve their mental health. Therefore I get a little nervous when people decide to set New Year’s resolutions focussed on fitness and they don’t know how to go about it.
Firstly, be specific with your goal setting. Name a target and a timeframe, for example, ‘I’m going to lose five kilos in six weeks’.
Also make sure it’s achievable − it’s fantastic to have long-term goals to head towards but make them realistic. In terms of losing large amounts of weight, choose a healthy target for your height and age. If you have always struggled with your weight, at first aim only for the lightest you have weighed as an adult. This gives you the psychological advantage of knowing you’ve been this weight before so therefore it’s possible to be there again.
And when you have a goal that’s going to take a while to reach, set several short-term goals along the way and be sure to celebrate each milestone. How about a new outfit for your changing figure? Or a massage to congratulate those hard-working muscles?
Next comes the crucial step of preparing a plan of attack. A high-flying resolution is great, but it needs to be backed up with a plan of specific actions and changes you’ve committed to make. Break free from those sedentary patterns, one habit at a time. If you’re not sure how to go about the practical component of your resolutions, do some research or ask around.
Most of these tips for tackling your New Year’s resolutions will be beneficial when setting goals in other areas of life too. Take care and let’s start 2013 off on the right foot!
For more fitness ideas and information contact your lifestyle-friendly, mobile fitness consultant
Sav Adele
Workout Savvy
