Are You at Risk of Falling Off the Fitness Cliff?

Dear Fitness Coach,

Every year, by the end of February, my New Year's resolution of losing weight and getting into shape is just a distant memory. This year I want it to be different. How can I keep it going for the long haul?

Lookin for a resolution solution


Dear Lookin,

According to data issued by Gold’s Gym, the leading authority on health and fitness, mid-February is about when New Year’s resolutions go astray – with gym check-ins beginning to steadily decline and members losing focus on their goals.

“We live in a world where, every year, things get faster – from the way we work to the technology we use. But when it comes to New Year’s resolutions, transforming your body takes time and patience,” says Dr. Belisa Vranich, author and renowned clinical psychologist. “As February rolls in, the frustration of not seeing the results they feel they have earned begins to reach its peak – leading to a decrease in motivation and ultimately a failure to keep their resolution.”

If you are worried about falling off the "fitness cliff", here are some tips on getting your motivation back on track.

1. Add some class to your routine.
   Whether it’s functional training like TRX or moving to the beat with a Zumba class, group exercise is a great way to inject some energy into a stale routine and will help you with your pledge to get back in shape.
2. Upgrade your workout.
   From smartphone apps like the Gold’s Gym Spotter to tech toys like The Fitbit, enlisting technology to keep you on track with your goals will add a whole new dimension to your workout, helping you pump up your fitness slump.
3. Don’t do it alone.
   Finding a workout buddy or a support group to cheer you on is one of the most effective ways to stick with your regimen. Not only does it help to share your journey with a friend, but it also instills some friendly competition that will keep you focused on hitting your goal.
4. Get off the scale.
   If you’re relying on the number on the scale to keep you focused, stop right now – the number on the scale doesn’t dictate your progress. Instead, ask your gym for a body fat assessment, which will pinpoint exactly where the state of your fitness currently lies.
5. Enlist a trainer.
   Even if it’s just for a few sessions, working with a certified personal trainer who can design a program that’s tailored to your body is the greatest step you can make in transforming your body and reaching your goals.