Staying motivated beyond January
We've all been there! Setting great intentions for the year ahead but, three weeks into the year, abandoning the plan as New Year blues set in and life simply gets in the way. But health is wealth, as they say, so we should be aiming to stay fit year round, not just for four weeks in the New Year.
So how do we stay motivated year-round, not just in January? Here, we give five handy tips on trying to turn the New Year intentions into healthy long-term habits.
Tip 1: Set specific and achievable goals
Having a clear idea of what you want to accomplish, set yourself a deadline and create a plan to get there. If you feel comfortable, commit this to paper and tell someone else about your objectives. This will help you stay motivated and keep you accountable. Statistically, you are much more likely to stick to a routine and achieve your objectives if you've made yourself externally as well as internally accountable.
Tip 2: Track your progress
Keeping track of your progress, whether it be through a workout diary or a fitness app, will help you see how far you've come and give you a sense of accomplishment. Our Spivi data system in our Cycle classes - whether you're doing Rhythm, Ride or Perform, is a really great way to keep track of your progress. It's important to not become a slave to the numbers, but on the other hand it's also really nice to see progression as numbers can improve faster than you might visibly see or feel results (if that's your goal).
Tip 3: Mix up your routine
Whilst routine and habits are really valuable and worthwhile, doing the same workout every day can get boring. Mixing up your routine will keep things interesting and prevent burnout. Try a Digme Yoga class if you normally do Cycle, or maybe mix it up and try Circuits or HIIT if you normally are a yogi. It'll help keep you excited and interested!
Tip 4: Find a workout buddy!
It is scientifically proven that having someone to exercise with can make working out more enjoyable, help you work harder and provide greater accountability. You're more likely to show up if you don't want to let down a friend, and more likely to try that little bit harder if you're working out alongside your pal. Exercise is simply also more fun if it's done with someone else! A workout buddy can be transformational for your ability to stick with a good thing.
Tip 5: Reward yourself
Give yourself small rewards for reaching milestones or sticking to your routine. This will help keep you motivated and on track. Life is about balance after all! Make sure you acknowledge your own progress :-)
GEOFF BAMBER
Geoff is Chief Executive Office of Digme Fitness. He is a former hedge fund manager and keen amateur triathlete. He has completed 10 Ironman triathlon races, including the Ironman World Championship in Hawaii.
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