The new year is a time for reflection on the year just gone and planning for the one to come. Many people set resolutions to get fitter, healthier and more active. If you are looking to start a new form of exercise, train for a sports event or have another goal in mind, here are some tips to set realistic goals and things you should consider when making your plans to ensure success:
- Do I really want to do this? If you are starting something because of other people, external pressures or a feeling that you should be, keeping consistent will be much more difficult. Choose something you think you will enjoy doing and even look forward to, and have a backup idea if you find out your original plan isn’t for you.
- Am I really ready and committed to doing this? To be successful you have to be at least 90% committed to doing the exercise or task and continuing with it. If you feel you are unlikely to see it through when you are feeling tired and are tempted to do nothing instead, it might not be a good time to start now. Work on what’s stopping you and wait for a better time to start.
- Is there anything else that might stop me? Consider if the exercise routine is likely to be disrupted or sabotaged. If you know you often have to work late on a certain day, for example, or have a long holiday coming up, choose to do something which you can fit around those commitments.
- What can I do to help myself be consistent? Everyone has an off day when they don’t feel like exercising. Find ways to keep yourself motivated, whether this is working with a physio or personal trainer who keeps you accountable, using a fitness tracker or exercise diary (paper or online). Find something that helps you be accountable to yourself.
If you are looking to become healthier, fitter or overcome persistent pain and injuries in 2024 get in touch to discuss how physiotherapy and/or Pilates can help you, email: info@clairegurneypilates.com or text/call/whatsapp: 07776044304.
