Whether your goal is to lose weight, gain muscle, finish a race, or climb that mountain, fitness probably plays a role in your new year’s resolution. A recent study found that only 8% of people actually keep their resolutions. 8%! In order to avoid being a part of the 92% of the population who lose their motivation around mid-February, don’t wait until January 1 to write out our plan – start now!

1. Define a realistic goal.

Instead of saying, “I will work out more,” say, “I will work out x times a week on x days.” Write out your goal where you can see it every day. Put a sign on your fridge, set reminders on your cell phone, keep a sticky note on your bathroom mirror, car dashboard then tell a friend/family member or your trainer Haley.
You don’t have to run on the treadmill. Dancing, hiking, swimming, and even gardening or mowing the lawn are all forms of physical activity. Commit to a level of activity that works for you!
Instead of saying, “I will work out EVERY DAY,” set your goals to more realistic time periods.

If you’re not a morning person, don’t commit to those 6:00 AM workout session.
Set goals you’re more likely to follow, take a step back and set more reasonable goals. This will avoid failures and giving up altogether.

2. Choose activities that interest you & get connected.

Find something you enjoy! If you are dreading your workout, you are less likely to stick with it. Some people love to run on the treadmill, others enjoy trying new fitness classes or hiking in nature. If you like trying new fitness classes, some gyms offer free class trials (I know I do for my new class challengers), so use those to your advantage! Many don’t have the financial means to join a gym or fitness programs in their area. Even if you don’t have any exercise equipment at home, you can certainly find an activity you enjoy either inside or outside – at home Amp Up Fitness Print N’ Go Workouts, no-equipment workouts, or walking around a local park.
Create a support system. Accountability is crucial when working to maintain a fitness goal. Join a support group, fitness class, or just schedule time to meet a friend to workout. If you’re looking for a new class to try, start asking around for recommendations now! You may be surprised who will join in on the fun.

3. Be mindful of your nutrition.

Did you know that Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides can help with your pre and post-workout fuel?Collagen is a naturally occurring protein in your body that can be found in connective muscle tissue. It provides your tendons and ligaments with a sort of flexible form of strength. It’s also in your hair, skin, and nails where it provides both strength and elasticity.

Joint health: While weight-bearing exercise can improve bone mass, it can also break down your cartilage and joints over time without proper cross-training and recovery. Collagen can be found in our cartilage which helps to pad our joints and prevent injury. That’s why it’s important to rest, stretch, maintain good mobility, and consume a balanced diet.

Weight loss: Consuming enough protein is essential to losing weight or maintaining a currently healthy weight. Protein is generally lower in calories, gives you energy, and won’t leave you reaching for seconds. Next time you meal prep, add in some Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides to your favorite smoothie, baked goods, or marinade!

Workout recovery: Continuing to consume enough protein on your rest days also helps to build new muscle. That muscle also increases your metabolism. Your muscles begin to rebuild, inflammation subsides, and you replenish energy for your next workout.Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides are an easy solution to get in your recommended daily amount of protein. Plus, this form of protein comes unflavored, which can help if you’re used to choking down a chalk-tasting whey variation.
If you like a little bit of flavor, check out Vital Proteins Collagen Peptides: Mixed Berry, Dark Chocolate + Blackberry, and Vanilla + Coconut Water. Each flavor is Paleo friendly, Whole30 Approved, gluten-free, and dairy-free with no sugar added.

4. Measure your progress.

Nothing motivates a person more than seeing progress being made.

Whether you write down your accomplishments in a notebook or use a fancy tracker or Amp Up Fitness online program, seeing visual evidence of your improvement will inspire you to reach new heights.
Plan out each training run for your next 10k, begin to track heart rates or calories expended, and you’ll feel more in control of your health.

Take your new resolution seriously and do it right! Pick attainable goals and start creating a fitness plan now that will set you up for success IMMEDIATELY! Dive right into setting your goals with Trainer Haley’s 12-Week Goal Setting Document.