New Years Resolutions

It's January, that time of year again, when people start declaring their new years resolutions. 

Most people have the best of intentions when they pick a new years resolution, but often come up with an idea that is unrealistic and unattainable because it is usually too vague, or overly ambitious, lacking a realistic plan and the long term motivational boosts needed when overcoming a major obstacle.  Sadly, most new years resolutions are given up on a few weeks after their enthusiastically hope-filled declaration on new years day.  

But that doesn’t have to be so this year.  The key to picking a new years resolution that you’ll actually be able to stick to and accomplish is ensuring it is a SMART goal.  And by SMART I mean:

S - specific

M - measurable

A - action oriented

R - realistic

T - timed

An example of a SMART new years resolution might be “I want to become a better runner this year by running the Yonge St 10km this April.” It specifically states the sport, event and distance goal for the resolution.   You can measure your progress by the distance you run each week in training for the goal event.  Its action oriented because you know you have to train/run in order to meet your goal.  Its realistic because it is a local event and within a reasonable fitness level. Finally, its timed because there is a set date for the event, from which a training schedule can be devised.  

Besides ensuring your resolution is SMART, there are a few other tips I can suggest to help you stick to your resolutions this year:

• It helps to tell others about it. Make a public announcement on Facebook or tell friends and family at dinner, the shame of failure is often quite a motivating force.
• Pick a partner to help keep you accountable.  You’ll be less likely to skip a workout if you know your buddy is counting on you. 
• Make it personal. Pick a resolution that has significant emotional meaning to you.  When you have those inevitable moments when you begin to struggle, remembering the emotional reason behind the resolution can help you dig a little deeper and help you keep going.   
• Hiring a personal trainer can also help you meet your goals by drawing on their experience and expertise. Remember its their job to help you succeed! 

Whatever your resolutions are this year, I hope you pick them SMARTly! 

If you need any help with your fitness goals, remember there are many support options out there to help you stick to them - including your personal trainer.  

Good luck and all the best for 2015!!