Every year we make New Year’s resolutions or goals that we totally forget about by March. But why is it so hard to keep those resolutions and stick to it?!

When you eat something you weren’t supposed to, you strengthen your “giving in” muscle, which makes it more likely that the next time you’ll give in and the time after that and the time after that. Every time you stick to your plan when you’re tempted to eat something else, you strengthen your “resistance” muscle, which makes it more likely that the next time you’ll resist, and the time after that and the time after that.

Here are some tips to help you stay committed year round!

1. Shift your thinking from couch potato mentality to thinking like an athlete.  Stop using your busy life as an excuse not to exercise or eat right. Start thinking about your workouts as hours of blessings rather than a sacrifice. So many people wish that they can do the things you do, so be thankful and keep pushing.
2. Think long term – What is your goal?  Why do you exercise?  Not just to look good… Maybe because you want to see your kids have kids or because you want to run a half marathon!  Each day is a step in that direction of accomplishing your “WHY”.
3. Make a commitment – Once you find your “why”, it’s time to make a commitment.   Commitment means the ability to carry out a worthy decision, even when the excitement of making that decision has passed. Understand this, even when you don’t want to or you’re bored or demotivated…. Your commitment to change your life will override it!  Do whatever it takes to stay committed… Pack your clothes the night before; be on time to your workout sessions, etc.
4. Keep track of your progress – Write it down… Today, maybe you can only do 10 pushups, and by the end of the month you can do 30… That’s progress… You will be proud and your body will love you for it!  Keep track of this progress…. In the long run, you’ll know it’s worth it.
5. Be Accountable – accountability applies to both diet and exercise.  If you are going to miss a session let your workout partner or trainer know.  This is the best way to be accountable.  Once you miss and are not held accountable, it becomes a bad habit… Don’t let this be you!  Be honest with yourself and others… it will help you stay motivated.
6. End the workout on a positive note – No matter how hard your workout was, spend a few minutes at the end thinking positively. Think about how good you feel, what great things you just did for your body, and all the reasons why you work out.  Ending your workout on a positive note will help make the whole experience more rewarding and help make it easier to do it again next time!
7. Commit to a training program, or an online fitness program to get you started. It will give you the jumpstart you need to form a habit of working out. Don’t know where to start, try one of our #KLFchallenges –> https://keylifefitness.com/join

The most important tip – Don’t quit! 

You have already begun your journey. Instead of resolutions, implement these simple things into your plan for a healthy lifestyle change.  KeyLife Fitness is here to help!  For the rest of the year, give your health your best!