I'm sure a lot of you have heard the large percentages of people that fail to keep their resolutions... I am not going to simply say it is a waste of time to make them resolutions, rather I would say that the new years is just a brilliant excuse for us to create a plan, and a source of accountability.
When it comes to fitness and health goals, you need to be smart about it, and create goals that will be suitable and will produce the results you are aiming for. All I want is for all of you to get healthy, live happier and more energised lifestyles, so here are some resolution traps I would suggest should be avoided at all cost!
Trap 1 - Want to lose 30 pounds
This is an incredible goal to have, however it is a long term goal, what if you made a short term and consistent goal such as "I want to lose 2 pounds a week" This would be a goal for which you could see results of immediately, and what better motivation than being able to see the resolution come to life within the first week of the year?!!
Trap 2 - I am going to try XYZ diet
Fill in the blank with any fad diet and you're doomed for failure. A typical diet-of-the-moment requires cutting out one or more major food groups, like fruits, grains, or meats. That's simply unhealthy and can also prove overwhelming. Instead, either get a professional to advice you with that which is perfect for you personally, or set more achievable dietary resolutions such as having a handful of veggies with every meal (thus creating a balance meal).
Trap 3 - I'm going to eat 800 calories a day
Sure, severely restricting your calorie intake will spur weight loss, but you'll gain it all back as soon as you start eating normally again - This quick solution strategy is common amongst the yo-yo dieters. Rather have a planned out meal strategy, creating a daily checklist and you will see yourself enjoy your food, not feel deprived, and you will see long lasting results.
Trap 4 - I'm quitting my indulgent foods
Cutting out indulgences may initially help you lose weight, but over time it will make you feel deprived and ultimately lead to bingeing. Instead, allow yourself some of them indulgent foods, but just create a control and limit of them, eat 85% of what is considered as "healthy" foods, and leave 15% to indulge yourself.
Trap 5 - I am going to do more exercise
This resolution isn't specific enough to be successful... Fitness newbies should start with one weekly workout that combines cardio and weight training. After three weeks, build up to two weekly workouts, and over time aim for five workouts a week.. This progress will allow you to adjust to the soreness, and allow you to manage you diet too..
Disclaimer - There are always exceptions to the rules. However, for most the above mentioned traps are ones that should be avoided and the mentioned strategies to resolve them would be a better way for us to start the year on the right on foot.
Let us avoid these traps together, and let us live a great healthy 2019!! :)