I’ve been on a bit about the ineffectiveness of resolutions lately and how the New Year, New Me is bullshit. Let me reinforce my thinking around this one last time. For now, anyway.

As we flip the calendar to February, a familiar scene unfolds in gyms worldwide: the once-eager crowd of January has thinned, leaving behind a trail of barely used memberships and half-fulfilled resolutions. But hey, if you did set a resolution and still going strong, give yourself a pat on the back—you’ve made it past the notorious drop-off cliff!

Let’s talk about something way more transforming than a New Year’s resolution. A lasting resolve! 

The Resolution Pitfall: A Tale as Old as Time

We’ve all been there, haven’t we? The clock strikes midnight, signaling the start of a new year, and we’re brimming with determination. “This is the year I get fit!” we declare. Fast forward a few weeks, and the allure of early morning jogs and smoothies has somewhat lost its sparkle. It’s not just you; it’s human nature. Our brains are wired to seek immediate rewards, not to sweat on a treadmill with the promise of reward months down the line.

Embrace the Power of Resolve

So, what sets apart those who stick to their fitness goals from those who fall off the bandwagon? One word: resolve. Unlike a resolution, which is often a broad and lofty goal, resolve is about the gritty, day-to-day determination. It’s about making a commitment to your health and fitness, not just for the sake of a New Year’s declaration but as a lifestyle change.

Tips to Transform Your Resolutions into Resolve

1. Set Realistic Goals: Start small, aim big. Setting a goal to run a marathon by March when you’ve barely jogged around the block might be stretching it. Instead, start with achievable milestones, like running a certain distance without stopping or hitting the gym three times a week.
2. Find Your Tribe: Strength in Numbers. A workout buddy or a fitness group can work wonders. On days when your bed is more appealing than the bench press, a little nudge from a friend can keep you on track. Plus, it’s always more fun to share the journey (and the pain)!
3. Celebrate the Small Victories: The power of a pat on the back. Did you choose a salad over a burger for lunch? That’s a win! Managed to do one more push-up than yesterday? Recognising and celebrating small successes can fuel your journey and keep the motivation engine running.
4. Embrace the Slip-Ups: Perfection is overrated. So you missed a workout or indulged a bit too much on the weekend. It’s not the end of the world or the end of your fitness journey. The key is not to let a slip-up spiral into a give-up. Dust yourself off, get back on track, and aim not to miss twice.
5. Make it Enjoyable: Find your fun. If the thought of another hour on the treadmill is about as exciting as watching paint dry, it’s time to shake things up. Try one of our classes at Hybrid Fitness Training. They are tough, but they are also fun. When you enjoy what you’re doing, it stops being a chore and becomes a highlight of your day.

The Bottom Line

As we sail through February, let’s shift our focus from fleeting resolutions to lasting resolve. Remember, it’s not about having a streak of unbroken gym attendance or a perfect diet; it’s about making consistent, sustainable choices that lead to a healthier, happier you. So, lace up your trainers, book a class,  and let’s turn those resolutions into a resolute march toward health and fitness.

After all, a year from now, you’ll wish you had started today!