They say it takes 30 days to create a habit and then your habits will take over and push you into your regime. What better time to create your new habits than the beginning of the year. Here are 11 tips to help you on your way.
1. Set compelling goals
Confidence and self belief brings results. 'When your desires are strong enough you will appear to possess superhuman powers to achieve' - Napoleon Hill
2. Plan
Write it down as an appointment in your diary, Outlook Calendar or put it into your mobile phone. Make it a rule that you can't cancel the appointment, just like you wouldn't cancel an appointment for other important events, like seeing your Doctor, Masseur, Dentist or even your Hairdresser. Don't cancel on yourself, you are important too!
3. Read your goals & training plan regularly
Keep them in a place that is easy to see to remind yourself of what it is you intend to achieve.
4. Prepare your food a day in advance
This will ensure you have your 5/-6 meals per day and reduce the temptation to buy a quick fix chocolate bar or 'bicky' from your office biscuit bin.
5. Exercise first thing in the morning
After a tough day at work, sometimes training is the last thing you feel like doing. Exercise first thing in the morning and never feel guilty for missing you training.
6. Surround yourself with others with good exercise habits already
You will be lifted by their energy and enthusiasm. Utilize your Studio's equipment before & after your session. Better still join in on any of your Studio's 4 Group Training Sessions; there are 3 types to choose from X Training, Boxing and Run Club. All fitness levels are encouraged to come along.
7. Get the family involved
Jump up from the couch and take your kids to the park - who remembers the fun as kids playing simple games like 'Statues', 'Tag' and 'Stuck in the Mud'? Sign your family up for a local triathlon and share in the excitement of competing together.
8. Sign up for an event
Commit to one of your studio's upcoming events to set you a goal to work towards. The 9 Week Weight Loss Challenge has been running for more than 10 years now, helping clients achieve awesome weight loss results and getting long term clients back on track. Why not be involved in a team event like a local fun run or a fitness charity event?
9. Clean out your wardrobe
Don't hold onto a bunch of clothes you are keeping 'just in case' you let slip and need these bigger sizes again. Streamline your wardrobe and keep the essential items. Set a goal to replace one out-of-date or oversized clothing item when your body shape starts changing.
10. Have fun
Where's your childlike spirit? Remember 'playlunch' and 'playtime'. Make your workouts, 'playtime' and you've got it made - it's all in your attitude. Don't give up on yourself. It is never too late to be the healthy person you might have been and deserve to be now.
11. Just show up
Go to the studio, group training, or the park with family and friends. Once you're there, it's hard to say no. 98% of life is showing up.
