This is me doing a plank challenge. Two and a half years ago I thought a plank was a piece of wood (which it still is.) I had no idea there was another type of plank. And here I am today doing a plank challenge to help strengthen my core. Which is also another term I didn't really think too much about. I would have said "core" is something you find in the center of an apple. I got my exercise outdoors by hiking, biking, and swimming.
This year I'm on a mission.
I'm on a journey as thousands of other people are to live a healthier and happier lifestyle which means exercising regularly and eating better. I don't want to be a bodybuilder. I just want to be less giggly so my clothes fit better. And I'm not looking for a diet. I'm looking for a lifestyle change. Something that is sustainable. Something I can manage every week and maintain without too much torture. And I like to eat. So I need a nutrition program that is more than eating lettuce and celery. I want real food. And an occasional glass of wine.
Sound familiar?
So why are the media so negative?? I’ve been reading all these articles about why you shouldn’t join a gym in January. That you’ll be setting yourself up for disappointment and you won’t keep your resolution to get in shape beyond the end of the month.
Full disclosure......I currently work for a chain of health clubs based in California. In the 2.5 years that I have I worked at In-Shape Health Clubs I have learned so much about what motivates people to work out. So even though I have all this insight and knowledge, I am just like you. I have the same issues with time constraints, willpower, diet, and motivation. I too decided this is my year. Only for me, I started my journey on November 15th. That was my day. I am now on a diet program with Jumpstart MD and am regularly working out 3-4 times a week. I am seeing the change already - and it's so motivating! I know I will reach my goal because I have made up my mind to do so. There are temptations all around me. But I'm staying strong. I'm doing this for myself. And it is so rewarding!!
1. Join a gym, health club, studio, Bootcamp or exercise program – find something that interests you. If you’re not sure what you like to do, then give some different things a try. Almost every single program out there allows a free trial. My biggest tip is to make sure it is convenient to get to (less than 10 minutes away). And has childcare if you have young kids.
2. Join now– all of the clubs and programs are offering great deals in January. You’ll get the lowest dues, or additional perks because they know that so many people have set resolutions for January. So, take advantage of their offers. Don’t wait. Don’t let the rain or snow be an excuse. Get off the couch and go now. Seize the day!
3. Ask for advice – every fitness company has people on staff to help you set goals and develop a program. They want you to succeed. And they’ve been trained to help you. All you have to do is ask.
4. Find a buddy – I work best when I have someone to work out with and to hold me accountable. We all have those days when we want to skip our workout. Your buddy will keep you going. And you’ll keep them going. Plus, it’s way more fun. All the laughs together help your core, too!
5. Buy some new workout gear - nothing makes a workout like a new pair of leggings and a cute top (for us gals.) I love the compression leggings (keeps everything tucked in!) I'm a huge fan of the clothes at GAPFIT, Old Navy and Target. You don't have to break the bank on cute stuff. And don't forget the shoes! Invest in a good pair of sneaks. I love my Nike's. Just find a pair that works for you.
6. Step outside your comfort zone and try new things – you may be shocked to find out that you really enjoy doing something that you’ve never tried. My favorite thing in the club is the Les Mills BODYPUMP class. I always thought that dance/cardio classes were my thing. Not anymore. I love the weight/resistance training classes.
7. Set goals and track your progress – there is nothing more personally motivating then tracking your results and seeing your measurements and/or weight change. Find the tracker that works for you. There are a lot of apps and fitness trackers out there. I’ve been tracking my diet and exercise with an app called CARB MANAGER. I like it because I can track food, water, activity – and be part of a chat group if I want.
Finally, if you have set your mind to do it than you will succeed. Keep the faith. And remember slow and steady wins the race. Give yourself 3-6 months to start seeing real results.
Stay strong and good luck!
ps. Keep me posted on your goals and progress!
This year I'm on a mission.
I'm on a journey as thousands of other people are to live a healthier and happier lifestyle which means exercising regularly and eating better. I don't want to be a bodybuilder. I just want to be less giggly so my clothes fit better. And I'm not looking for a diet. I'm looking for a lifestyle change. Something that is sustainable. Something I can manage every week and maintain without too much torture. And I like to eat. So I need a nutrition program that is more than eating lettuce and celery. I want real food. And an occasional glass of wine.
Sound familiar?
So why are the media so negative?? I’ve been reading all these articles about why you shouldn’t join a gym in January. That you’ll be setting yourself up for disappointment and you won’t keep your resolution to get in shape beyond the end of the month.
Full disclosure......I currently work for a chain of health clubs based in California. In the 2.5 years that I have I worked at In-Shape Health Clubs I have learned so much about what motivates people to work out. So even though I have all this insight and knowledge, I am just like you. I have the same issues with time constraints, willpower, diet, and motivation. I too decided this is my year. Only for me, I started my journey on November 15th. That was my day. I am now on a diet program with Jumpstart MD and am regularly working out 3-4 times a week. I am seeing the change already - and it's so motivating! I know I will reach my goal because I have made up my mind to do so. There are temptations all around me. But I'm staying strong. I'm doing this for myself. And it is so rewarding!!
1. Join a gym, health club, studio, Bootcamp or exercise program – find something that interests you. If you’re not sure what you like to do, then give some different things a try. Almost every single program out there allows a free trial. My biggest tip is to make sure it is convenient to get to (less than 10 minutes away). And has childcare if you have young kids.
2. Join now– all of the clubs and programs are offering great deals in January. You’ll get the lowest dues, or additional perks because they know that so many people have set resolutions for January. So, take advantage of their offers. Don’t wait. Don’t let the rain or snow be an excuse. Get off the couch and go now. Seize the day!
3. Ask for advice – every fitness company has people on staff to help you set goals and develop a program. They want you to succeed. And they’ve been trained to help you. All you have to do is ask.
4. Find a buddy – I work best when I have someone to work out with and to hold me accountable. We all have those days when we want to skip our workout. Your buddy will keep you going. And you’ll keep them going. Plus, it’s way more fun. All the laughs together help your core, too!
5. Buy some new workout gear - nothing makes a workout like a new pair of leggings and a cute top (for us gals.) I love the compression leggings (keeps everything tucked in!) I'm a huge fan of the clothes at GAPFIT, Old Navy and Target. You don't have to break the bank on cute stuff. And don't forget the shoes! Invest in a good pair of sneaks. I love my Nike's. Just find a pair that works for you.
6. Step outside your comfort zone and try new things – you may be shocked to find out that you really enjoy doing something that you’ve never tried. My favorite thing in the club is the Les Mills BODYPUMP class. I always thought that dance/cardio classes were my thing. Not anymore. I love the weight/resistance training classes.
7. Set goals and track your progress – there is nothing more personally motivating then tracking your results and seeing your measurements and/or weight change. Find the tracker that works for you. There are a lot of apps and fitness trackers out there. I’ve been tracking my diet and exercise with an app called CARB MANAGER. I like it because I can track food, water, activity – and be part of a chat group if I want.
Finally, if you have set your mind to do it than you will succeed. Keep the faith. And remember slow and steady wins the race. Give yourself 3-6 months to start seeing real results.
Stay strong and good luck!
ps. Keep me posted on your goals and progress!
No comments:
Post a Comment
Thanks for your feedback!
~Kris