How to Stay on Top of Your Fitness Goals

It’s no secret that the beginning of a new year means a heightened focus on health and fitness. In fact, “eat healthier” and “get more exercise” are two of the top New Year’s resolutions made by people around the world each year. However, recent research has indicated that only a small percentage of people actually stick to their resolutions, which means most people toss their fitness goals out the window by mid-spring.

Don’t be one of those people. Achieving your fitness goals is all about consistency, so in order to see results, you have to stick to them even after the newness of your exercise routine has worn off.

Feeling like you might be falling off the fitness wagon already? Here are some methods that will help you stay on top of your goals, even when your dedication is flagging.

Make Friends With a Reliable Workout Buddy

Let’s be real: you’re much more likely to hit the gym if you know someone else is counting on you to show up. Plus, working out with a friend is much more enjoyable than flying solo. Make a deal with a like-minded buddy to motivate one another and stay on track together. You might even find that you love hanging out with that person at the gym or wherever you get moving. If your friend starts to slip, remind them why they made their fitness goals in the first place. Hopefully, they’ll do the same for you when you start to lag.

Find the Type of Exercise That Brings a Smile to Your Face

If you have to reluctantly drag yourself to the gym every day, then you might want to rethink the forms of physical activity you’re engaging in. Workouts can be fun if you find the ones that work well for your body type and personality. For instance, Fasted cardio is a fantastic option for people who are interested in losing weight quickly. Peaceful runs in the park are good for exercisers who like to be out in nature while they sweat. Play around with a few different workout options before deciding which ones make your fitness routine the most enjoyable.

Revamp Your Exercise Playlist at Least Once a Week

Did you know that using music during your workout can actually reduce fatigue and improve your motor coordination? Take some time to set up a playlist that makes you want to get moving, and spice it up every few days. You’ll find that time flies when you’re really feeling your exercise jams, so don’t let your playlist become stagnant or your workouts might, as well.

Embrace the High You Feel After a Great Workout

Every time you exercise, your body produces endorphins that bring a smile to your face and leave your body feeling refreshed. Don’t just collapse on the couch after you get home from a tough workout; take advantage of that high and how good it feels. Shower and tackle some chores with your renewed energy or hang out with friends. By paying extra attention to the post-workout endorphins, you’ll be more likely to seek them out every day.

Buy a Calendar and Slash a Big X Across Each Day You Accomplish Your Goals

Skipping a few workouts every week might not seem like a big deal at first, but all of those days add up eventually. Keep track of every time you achieve your daily goals by physically marking that day on a calendar. Not only will this motivate you to work out so you can feel satisfied as you draw that big red X, but it will also help you monitor how well you’re keeping up with your weekly fitness routine.

Purchase New Workout Gear That Makes You Feel Confident

You’d be surprised by how much a flashy new pair of running shoes or a sweet athletic outfit can make you want to get moving. It’s hard to feel confident in your ratty old gym clothes, so spend a little money on a few new options that will boost your workout enjoyment and make you feel like a workout pro.

Add a Little Variety to Your Weekly Routine

Anyone can get bored if their workout routine feels the same each and every day. Do yourself a favor and spice your regular habits up with new kinds of exercise, different workout buddies, various locations, and alternating schedules. The more variety your fitness routine has, the more likely you are to stick with it and stay motivated.

In Summary

Although it’s tempting to become one of those people who ditches their fitness goals once spring and summer roll around, try not to give up so easily. Keep your workout routine fresh and exciting so you stay motivated, and hold yourself accountable with workout buddies and a tracking system. Add a little flavor to your workouts with new music, outfits, and experiences, and most importantly, remember that you’re in this for the long haul.