I don't know about you, but I'm always looking to improve my fitness and am constantly setting goals to make this happen. However, like most, life takes over and those goals tend to go back on the shelf. But this year, I'm determined to make a difference. The trick is to stay motivated, and I've sat down with Weybridge based Personal Trainers from Total Aspect Fitness, Jason Cooling and Alex Crockford for their top five tips to achieve those all-important fitness goals at last...
1. Make sure to schedule in some essential ‘me time’
Setting a simple, weekly routine is the easiest way to gently introduce yourself to a fitness regime. The key however is to not overload yourself – getting back to work can be a tough time for us all, it’s important that you book time slots for your training. Maybe it’s one or two evenings a week or a weekend session, but make sure it’s written in your diary, and stick to it. You’ll gain a real sense of achievement just a week into your new workout schedule.
Book a time for you, you don't have to wake up at 5 in the morning to exercise, maybe you're energetic in the evening? My trick is to go after work, and I make sure that I have to pass the gym every evening on my commute, which believe it or not, makes things easier.
2. Choose the right type of exercise for your goals
Selecting the right type of exercise for you is the key to maintaining your fitness goals. Ask yourself, do you prefer exercising on your own, in the gym, or might you prefer an outdoor group workout? Will a Personal Trainer give you that extra drive and motivation you need to kick start your goals? Or is it time to take up a new sport?
I find that mixing up your exercises gives you a chance to mix things up and stay motivated. There are many exercises out there and many classses, and fitness can actually be fun if you find the right exercise for you. For alternative classes, read our article of the best ones in Surrey & SW London here.
3. Buddy up!
It's not just you hoping to lose a few pounds or tone up for the year ahead - you are joining a huge community when you start exercising. By making new friends and exercising in a group, each person will play their own role in motivating their peer or pushing them to the next level. A bit of friendly competition works wonders when getting fit! The camaraderie of group exercise is incredible and we see this every week at our group Personal Training sessions at Oatlands Park. If you miss a few sessions you miss out on a whole lot more than a week’s training!
Plus, I always find that I can push myself more when there are others around and I end up actually going the extra mile. Whereas when you're on your own, it's easier to give up.
4. Think SMART
Don't think that you can only set goals for yourself in January. Fitness doesn't start with new year's resolutions, it starts with a choice. And if you set yourself goals and commit them to paper, you're literally planning for success. To help get you started, get SMART with your goals:
· Specific – consider your goal - what will it be? Maybe it’s time to set yourself a fitness challenge like a weekly 5km park run or your first half marathon?
· Measurable – ask yourself how you will track your progress? Will you use a diay, or an app? What apps will you use?
· Achievable – how will I accomplish my goal? What are the steps you'll put in place to make it happen?
· Realistic – what results can realistically be achieved?
· Time – commit to a timeframe and set yourself a date to achieve your goal. And don't forget to check in with yourself!
5. Reward yourself
Treats along the way will keep you motivated, but most importantly they will be the reminder of all you have achieved. You’ll feel proud of your new lifestyle with newfound energy levels and self-belief. Maybe it’s a new pair of trainers to lace up at the start line of your first half marathon or your favourite leggings you’ve had your eye on?
