9 Ways to Avoid the Fitness Cliff

February is here and New Year’s resolutions are in full swing….or, well they should be! But, if you are like myself and the majority of those who set goals at the New Year, maybe it’s been a rocky pass, a few bumps in the road, and maybe a thought or two about completely throwing in the towel. Have no fear, grab this list of tools and tips to help you stay away from the edge and stay on track to fitness success!!

Start Simple

Start with small realistic goals. This is so important when starting fitness plan for the first time or working on a new goal. Start with realistic goals (goals that are achievable) like “workout 3x a week” instead of “workout every day”. Setting realistic goals will help you feel accomplished and keep you from being discouraged. Increase your goals at a manageable pace so you don’t get burnt out by working out too much, too quickly or discouraged if you miss a day or two.

Plan, Plan, Plan

Create a plan for your goal of what you want to accomplish. Goals are much more effective if there is an action plan to achieve them! You are also more likely to follow through if you’ve planned ahead and know what you’re going to do before you do it.

Don’t get bored of your routine

do what you enjoy– you won’t keep doing something if you aren’t having FUN! Don’t be afraid to switch things up and try new things. Fitness isn’t a one size fits all type of things – that’s why there are options! There’s weights, cardio, group fitness classes, stretching, HIIT, training classes/session, basketball, and so much more. Finding something that works for you AND that you enjoy is important. If you like what you are doing, you’ll keep doing it! Switching up your activities will not only help you find what you like, but keep your routine fun!

Think lifestyle, not quick fix

Train for the marathon, not a sprint! Whether your goals are fitness related or not, most goals pertain to bettering ourselves or trying to create a new habit. Focusing on creating healthy habits will help you reach your goals and maintain them for the long haul. Trying to achieve a “quick fix” doesn’t help you with long term results.

Don’t forget the food

Remember, the gym is only part of being healthy. What we feed our bodies impact a HUGE part of our results and fitness goals.

Celebrate your victories and track your successes

It is important to celebrate and be proud of yourself when you accomplish a goal, and reach a milestone. All successes are important no matter how big or small. Tracking your successes and progress is a great tool to help you remember how far you’ve come, and to see everything you’ve accomplished. You can use the VASA app to record your workouts every day!

Don’t let one bad day define you

Remember, we are not going to be perfect. There will be tough days and days where things don’t go as planned. Just because there is a bad day or missed day here or there does NOT mean you won’t succeed. Get back up, and try again. You CAN do it!

Find Support and ask for help

Finding a great support system will help you reach your goals. A support helps cheer you on and keep you accountable. And don’t be afraid to ask for help from a Coach or Fitness Instructor. They are great resources to help keep you accountable and working hard.

Rest

Listen to your body, and rest and relax. This will help you recover and be able to work hard.

We hope that these fitness tips will help you get past the “fitness cliff” and move towards your goals at full speed! Need some extra tips/ advice to help you reach your goals? CLICK HERE to schedule a session with a Fitness Coach. Found a useful tip or are working on a goal? Share it on social media and tag us @vasafitness so we can repost!

Written by: Julia Price, VASA Fitness Social Media Assistant