There are so many ways to be unhealthy in 2021, but excusing yourself from physical fitness because of lock-downs or gym closures is the last thing you need to do this year! Just as the world is bouncing back from COVID, it’s time to get physical and set some fitness goals! It might seem overwhelming after a year of isolation and sedentary lifestyle, but following these tips will help you set actionable, effective fitness goals – and get that 2021 beach bod.
1. Set realistic goals
In a study of the differences between an average Victoria’s Secret Angel and the average woman, Victoria’s Secret models were found to stand 5’10”, and wear a size six dress. The average woman stands 5’4” and wears a size 16 dress. It’s important to set realistic fitness goals to ensure that exercise is fun. If you expect an immediate transformation from normal to extraordinary, it’s very unlikely you will be pleased with your normal results – making it less likely for you to stick to your new fitness routine.
2. Make it fun
If outdoors is your thing, incorporate an outdoor run into your fitness routine. If you like a more social atmosphere, join a fitness club or a gym, and coast on the energy of the group. Whatever your fitness goals, it’s important to make them something you genuinely look forward to throughout your day.
3. Make physical activity part of your daily routine
Physical activity shouldn’t be allocated to specific days of the week! If you’ve chosen Monday, Wednesday and Friday as gym days, try incorporating a walk or jog on your off days, or choose a more physical chore around the house to complete, to ensure you make exercise part of your daily routine.
4. Ditch your all-or-nothing mind-set
Having an all-or-nothing mind-set is a great way to ensure you fail at your fitness goals. Train your brain to ditch the all-or-nothing mindset by first, becoming aware of when you slip into this pattern. Next, make a decision to separate your sense of self-worth from your physical performance. Focus on your positive qualities and successes throughout the process, and identify your triggers to slip back into a sedentary lifestyle.
5. Choose the right outfit and a great playlist music
When you look good, you feel good. A British study showed that people wearing black were perceived as smarter and more sophisticated than those wearing other colors. The color red ranked second in the survey. Go out and put together a cute and high-quality fitness outfit, and put together a playlist of your favourite energetic songs, and make exercise a party! With the right equipment, everything is more fun. Consider investing in a pair of wireless earbuds, for the right look, and less swinging cords getting in the way.
6. Increase fluid intake
The more activity you have in your life, the more fluids you will need to consume to stay hydrated. Make sure you are drinking plenty of water before and after your workout, and choosing healthy and hydrating drink choices throughout the day, to stay energetic. If getting enough water is an issue for you, as it is with many people, keep a bottle of water nearby all day, and make a goal of finishing it by workout-time.
7. Join forces with friends
Invite your friends or partner to exercise with you, or get a gym membership at the same location. Making dates to meet a partner for an after-work workout, ensures you are held to your commitments – and gets you excited to see your partner-in-fitness. Working out or going on a jog with a friend is a great time to share about your day and grow your relationship, all while getting fit!
8. Reward yourself
Reinforce healthy behaviour by rewarding yourself for meeting or working towards your fitness goals! It’s important not to cut too many of the things you love out of your life, and use these things to celebrate your forward progress. Give yourself fun rewards like a shopping trip for a smaller pair of jeans, or go to a movie you’ve wanted to see as a reward for meeting your goals.
Making changes for a healthier lifestyle can be an intimidating process. Don’t plague yourself with negativity or sabotage yourself with an unhealthy diet or habits. Make the decision to adopt a more fit lifestyle, and incorporate this decision into every part of your life and day – and watch as you meet and surpass your fitness goals for 2021.
About the author:
Naomi Shaw is a freelance journalist residing in sunny Southern California with her husband and three children. She is a work-at-home mom that enjoys writing on fashion, beauty, jewelry, and everything weddings!