Setting Small Achievable Fitness Goals
#newmonday #newweek #newgoals are typical hashtags you can find on social media reminding us all that each week and each day is a new opportunity to start fresh, turn over a new leaf and begin again. I bet we all wish it was that easy! In fact, setting a hard fast rule like "I am starting on Monday no matter what" can actually undermine your attempt to get back on track and be successful with your workout plan. According to researchers(1), it is a better idea to set a goal that you can't easily talk yourself out of. Making small, incremental changes to your routine can add up to big results. 
Now, with that said, as instructors, we are in a different boat, our motivation for getting to fitness classes is that a) We instruct the class, and b) We have to be there, but above all, c) Teaching classes gives us life and keeps us physically fit and emotionally sane. However, the same philosophy can still apply for any workout regimen.
Here are a few helpful hints to keep in mind as the days get shorter and winter approaches for many of us.
1. Set small achievable goals.
2. Celebrate yourself, your successes and your milestones no matter how big or small you think they may be.
3. Find a workout buddy or someone or something that can hold you accountable.
4. Don't over commit. Build your exercise plan in weekly increments.
5. Pay yourself. YEP, you heard me! Donate money in an "exercise fund"....a jar on the counter so you can visually see your successes while saving for something awesome.
6. Schedule working out into your calendar. Make an appointment so you get a reminder on your phone or at work.
7. Be prepared! Pack your gym bag the night before and make sure it has everything you need for the gym or classes.
8. Socialize your plans. Let your family and friends know that you are going to workout. I don't mean plaster your schedule all over every social media channel, but DO make your plans visible to others to elicit conversation.
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bodyinspiredfitness.com/blog/2016/06/30/how-to-find-workout-tribe/ |
10. Find what works for you. These days fitness classes run the gamut. There are SO MANY CLASSES for every interest and every person. Find what makes you happy. Find what fills your tank. Find that happiness, and somewhere along the line your fitness goals will naturally become your lifestyle.
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Source: (1): https://www.nbcnews.com/better/pop-culture/how-motivate-yourself-get-out-bed-work-out-today-ncna743006
Tribe Image: http://bodyinspiredfitness.com/blog/2016/06/30/how-to-find-workout-tribe/
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