January is always the craziest time of the year for gyms, but come mid-Feb it’s usually back to its normal pre-New Year self. While many of us lose the momentum that inspired us to get fit in the first place, there are ways to get it back. Committing to your new healthier self this year doesn’t have to be hard.
1. Get back into your mindset. Write down your goals and figure out the exact steps you have to take to get there. For example, try to be more specific, “I want to lose 5kgs over the next six weeks by cutting out fast food and going to the gym five times a week.” This will make your goals more manageable and it won’t seem so overwhelming.
2. Get in touch with a friend who’s always exercising, and ask if you can join him/her for their February workouts. Remember that asking for help is OK, and it will make you feel accountable next time you feel like ditching your next session.
3. Time management is important for accomplishing any goal and fitness is no exception. Look at your schedule and rearrange some things so that you can actually fit in your training routines.
4. Invest in some cool workout gear to help you get excited about exercise. Something as simple as new workout clothes can improve your confidence and help you get to the gym.
5. Purge the fridge and chuck any food choices that aren’t good for you, like cho
colates, cake and the tub of ice cream in the freezer. Start fresh and restock your kitchen with healthy choices, including lots of fruits and vegetables and nuts for snacking.
6. Exercise five to seven days of the week, for 30-60 minutes each session. Doing HIIT (high-intensity interval training) classes are a great way to burn more fat in less time. Plus, you can pretty much do them anywhere!
7. Get enough sleep every night, so you have enough energy to take on the day. It’s recommended that you get at least seven to nine hours of shut-eye each night. Make it happen, and stick to it! The changes in your physical and metal health will be incredible.
8. Slug down about 2 litres of water every day. It seems like a lot (and you may be running to the bathroom a little more often), but once you make a habit out of it, you’ll feel amazing and your body (and skin) will thank you for it!
9. Hit up the free nutritional plans online! Just make sure to consult your doctor if you have any medical issues if you plan on making any radical changes to your diet or exercise regime.
10. Remember that slip-ups are okay (even expected) so don’t be too harsh on yourself. It happens! Stumbling on your path to success is a given – just don’t give up. You’ve got this!
