Every year at around this time we're bombarded with messages and pressure to devise and implement New Year resolutions which is all well and good except for the fact that the first six weeks of the year are often devoid of routine.
Long summer evenings lend themselves to socializing with houseguests and holidays. Then the period ends with two long weekends which can turn a few harmless weeks of excess in December into an indulgence that extends out into a two month block.
What's more is that recent research now shows that the weight gained over the festive period is often not lost, people just re-set their normal for the new year. This annual habit can significantly affect health across a decade. So... even if you can’t implement a full launch of your healthy habits in January it’s important to make a start. Here are four top tips to get you moving again.
TRAINNG TIP #1:
The first key to establishing your new routine is to make your first session fun and make it easy:
Firstly, its far easier to get motivated and off the couch when you start with activities that you know and enjoy. The second-best thing is to try something new to stimulate your interest and challenge those muscles. Have you tried Yoga, weights, or RPM yet? ...Les Mills offers a wide variety of fabulous group fitness classes, including brand new programs like Pilates, Shapes and Strength Development.
If you're still stuck for ideas grab a Les Mills Personal Trainer for free consultation to work out what's going to work for you?
TRAINING TIP #2:
Secondly remember to start easy. Hard session to begin with can be even harder to back up. Easy sessions on the other hand are easy to repeat and easy to build on.
If you're new to training, you can start with as little as 2 x 15-20min pw for 2 weeks and then build to 3 x pw for 3 weeks
If you've been here before or are starting back after a shorter break reducing your "Training Volume" by 30% for your first 2-4 workouts will help enormously. Training Volume = training duration x training frequency. For example, if you normally train 3 x a week for an hour, a 30% volume reduction looks like 2 x 40min. The reduction in volume also means your training Intensity can remain elevated without the risk of major overload or early burn out.
TRAINNG TIP #3:
Make yourself accountable - Set a goal, Make a plan, Get a training partner
Set your goals: Think of an activity or an event to train for like one of the Great Walks of NZ or a Sport you would like to try or plan to play... It might be it's running a certain distance, lifting a particular weight, or attending a certain number of classes per week. Identify when you can train, set the days and times you can realistically train each week. Having clear objectives gives you something to strive for.
Create a Schedule: Treat your workouts like any other important appointment. Block out specific times in your calendar dedicated to exercise and stick to it. Consistency is key, and having a set routine makes it easier to build a habit.
Find a Workout Buddy or Join a Community: Having a workout partner can make exercise more enjoyable and hold you accountable. You're less likely to skip a workout if someone is counting on you. Alternatively, joining a fitness class or start with a Personal Trainer who can provides you with support and camaraderie to keep you motivated in the long run.
TRAINNG TIP #4:
Consult a Personal trainer to structure a varied and personalized training plan - - Try the 2 for $49 PT Starter Deal
An effective and motivating training routine needs be specific to your own fitness level, training goals and individual limitations. Ideally, your days should vary in style and intensity across the week to prevent boredom and maximize your training efforts.
Utilizing a Les Mills PT, even just to for a free consultation will help you to tailor your workouts and structure you’re training to maximize your training time and effort.
LES MILLS PERSONAL TRAINING:
All Les Mills Personal trainers not only guide you through exercises using proper form and techniques, minimizing the risk of injuries but also educates you about fitness principles, nutrition, and lifestyle choices. This knowledge empowers you to make informed decisions about your health and fitness outside of your training sessions, contributing to long-term success.
Knowing that you have a scheduled session with a personal trainer adds a layer of accountability. Plus, having someone cheering you on and providing encouragement can be a powerful motivator.
Check out the Les Mills PT Starter deal below 2 x 45min PT sessions for $49 or contact reception to speak to one of our Trainers.
• https://www.lesmills.co.nz/pt-starter-deal
This is a good time of year to consider the balance between healthy discipline and healthy indulgence. Being fit and maintaining a healthy body is the best health insurance you can get. Come and join us at Les Mills Takapuna and make 2024 your healthiest year ever. Train a lot or train just a little - just be sure that you also TRAIN SMART!