Be Realistic And Specific In Your Fitness Plan

A popular resolution of a lot of people at the start of the year is to get fit. This does not come as a surprise because we know how widespread the problem of obesity is. By being overweight, we increase our risk of succumbing to many different health problems. When overweight and unfit, people do try to commit to scheduling workouts and being more active in order to lose weight. These resolutions are related and often go together. By the end of each year, though, not many people can say they have attained their target. If you are among those who want to try again, here are ways to improve your possibilities of finally succeeding.

First you have to get real. This means you have to set a concrete goal that is realistic, given your current circumstances. Aiming too high will only increase your risk of getting disappointed and frustrated. These negative emotions are the most common reasons why people drop out of their fitness programs. You cannot be transformed overnight into a competitive athlete, for instance. Preparing for a bodybuilders' contest or a supermodel competition does not take only a few weeks. A complete medical examination will show you your actual health condition and what is possible for you at the beginning of your fitness program. Your goal and your pacing should be based on your actual capabilities.

To be able to reach your main goal, you need to determine your specific steps and sub-goals. What you should do each week and each month, and what you should achieve by the end of each interval, concretize how you can reach your year-end goal. These smaller targets are rewards in themselves because they are easier to accomplish. When you attain every milestone you gain more momentum to go forward. Because of the steps and sub-goals, any possible setback will only have a limited impact.

Make your concrete main goal and your sub-goals the focal points of your general fitness plan. This fitness plan should be put in writing so that your commitment to it is strengthened. Your plan should be holistic, with your workout details and schedules, recommended diet and other lifestyle improvements. Maybe a weekly massage can be added to address muscle soreness from workouts. Perhaps you want to change your sleeping and waking patterns to shore up your energy levels for your workouts. Append the plan to a fitness journal where you can record your progress and any possible problems you encounter. Identifying your obstacles can help you find ways to overcome them.

If you get real, be specific and make a plan, your chances of successfully working through your year-long fitness program are greater. You can then be among the few who can claim victory at the end of the year.

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