Keep Your Resolutions and Get in Shape

Following Jan. 1^st, the start of winter quarter is incomplete without choruses of students across campus energetically discussing their plan to “get back on track” this year or to “finally get into shape.”  One of the most commonly pledged (and often dropped) New Year’s resolutions is to lose weight and/or get in shape.  While great in theory, many people approach such goals the wrong way, by making unattainable goals or not committing the true dedication it takes.  If you joined the millions of people that swore they’d be healthier by the time 2013 comes around, then take a look at these tips to stay on track and actually achieve your resolution.
 
1.)  Make small changes.  It’s unlikely that cutting out all foods that are bad for you will be easy and that you’ll immediately crave only Dr. Oz’s favorite health foods.  Rather than trying to tackle a hundred things all at once, make slow changes and set goals on a monthly or weekly basis.  For example, a great way to start is to cut out all liquid calories.  If you cannot avoid certain liquid calories such as alcoholic drinks, just limit the amount and watch out for the sugar-filled, “calorie bomb” mixed drinks.
 
2.)  Move at the pace that’s right for you.  Just because your roommate has resolved to hit the gym everyday for at least two hours doesn’t mean that that’s the right equation for you (and really how long do you think she’ll hang in there with an extreme goal like that?).  Instead, set realistic goals.  For example, if you want to start running, try a mixed workout of walking/jogging intervals, and each week ramp up the intensity just slightly, until finally you have built the endurance to have an all-running workout.
 
3.)  Make a schedule.  Plan out a weekly or monthly schedule as a way to commit to your workouts and start planning out healthier meals.  You’re more likely to commit to something once it’s written down and in plain sight.
 
4.)  Grab a buddy!  Find someone with similar fitness goals and track your progress together.  Having a buddy will make you feel pressured to fulfill your planned workout routines and motivate you to make healthier choices.
 
5.)  Most importantly, don’t give up!  Just because you don’t suddenly have Jennifer Aniston’s body (although you’ve been going to yoga class religiously and making better eating choices) doesn’t mean that your changes aren’t working.  Results aren’t going to be instantaneous, but don’t let that discourage you!  Keep it up and you will see results eventually—and be even prouder that you actually kept your New Years resolution!
 
Sources:
http://www.self.com/health/blogs/healthyself/2012/01/the-5-tricks-to-keeping-your-n.html
 
http://www.hungry-girl.com/askhg/show/2183
 
Picture:
http://www.gabbyreece360.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/01/girl-running-on-…