How to Achieve Your Fitness Goals

At the start of a new year, many people make the decision to achieve better health. Fitness goals are almost always at the top of resolution lists, but did you know that less than 10% of people actually achieve their fitness goals before the year is out? Unfortunately, many studies have shown this to be true, but every goal can and should be achievable. Especially if the goal is SMART.

When your goals are SPECIFIC, MEASURABLE, ATTAINABLE, REALISTIC, and TIMELY, you’ve already taken the first step toward success.

Now, stop and reassess your fitness goals.
Then consider these five tips to achieve them:

1) Believe in yourself. 
This is a very powerful move to make. If you don’t believe in yourself, you have already decided that you won’t achieve your goals. At some point in your life, you’ve had to be a beacon of positivity for someone else, no? Whatever you did to motivate that person, do that again for yourself right now and forever moving forward. It’s not always easy, but it will always make a difference.

2) Find an accountability partner. 
Share your goals with someone. A significant other, a running group or maybe your favorite fitness instructor. Throw your goals out into the world so that someone can cheer you on. And maybe even join you.

3) Educate yourself. 
Speak with professionals. Read notable resources. Talk to those who have already achieved a goal like yours. Do your research so that you’re well prepared for the journey ahead of you. Going into it with a solid plan will make you feel more comfortable with the work.

4) Invest in the right gear. 
Shiny new things can lift our spirits, it’s true. So invest in that new pair of running shoes, or spend money on the gym membership you’ve always wanted. Buy the hand weights, or hire a trainer. Give yourself that one gift that will ultimately keep you motivated and moving.

5) Accept the setbacks. 
This is a really hard thing to embrace, but you need to believe that not all setbacks are dead stops. They’re just reality checks that will ultimately propel you forward with more determination than ever. Learn from your setbacks, then forget about them.

Finally, I leave you with this: It is never, ever too late to set new fitness goals. The right time for new beginnings can only be defined by your willingness to work for change. If it feels like the right time, then it is the right time. Embrace your motivation and the adventure, and watch yourself become the best version of you.

This is 2016. It’s your year.
I wish you the best of luck!

For more all-things-fitness posts, check out the Inspired To Be Fit link-up!

Question: Who is your accountability partner?