Have a Smarter New Year
When it comes to New Year’s Resolutions, working smart is just as important as working hard
By Michelle Payne, Senior Fitness Specialist & Personal Training Coordinator
We’re two weeks into 2022, have your resolutions been made—and now possibly forgotten? How do we set ourselves up for success with diet and exercise this year?
First, let’s focus on the “do not.”
- Do not over-restrict.
- Do not overcommit.
- Do not overcorrect.
- Do not overthink.
- Do not oversimplify.
Now, for the “do.” Aim for SMART goals to help you achieve your fitness goals for the new year. SMART goals are:
- Specific
Specific goals often have a number value so you can track your success or failure.
Example: Make it a goal to work out three days a week as opposed to saying “I will work out more.”
- Measurable
In line with being specific, the goals ought to be measurable to allow you to see whether you’re meeting them. Walking three days a week is a goal you can track, while a goal of “walking more” is arbitrary and thus, not so easily measured.
- Attainable
Avoid aiming too high or too low when setting a goal. Think of what you can realistically achieve in days, weeks or months—as opposed to years. An attainable goal should always be consistent with your current fitness level and timeline.
- Realistic
Losing 20 pounds a week sounds great, but it’s an unrealistic goal that not only is unhealthy to try and achieve, but will likely leave you discouraged and more likely to give up entirely. Choosing realistic goals that you can meet will reinforce your efforts and motivate you to keep moving forward. Losing one pound per week is a realistic and sustainable goal.
- Time-bound
Plan a specific time period for when you plan to achieve your goal. Giving yourself a realistic timeline will help you gauge progress and keep you accountable.
Example: “I want to fit into a size 10 pair of jeans within the next 3 months,” rather than “I want to fit into a size 10 pair of jeans.”
With these tips, you’re well on your way to a healthier, happier, and SMARTer 2022.
—View the WAC’s personal training services online.
Posted January 10, 2022; JC