Z. Johnson
The new year is finally here! Well, I’m sure we’ve been anxiously waiting for 2020 to come to an end to start with renewed energies this new 2021. It’s no secret that for many of us, keeping up with our healthy regimen amidst a pandemic, with lockdowns, social distancing and spending more time at home, was certainly more challenging than in the past. But, despite all of that, I know we’ve all had to adapt to these new conditions. This will eventually pass. In the meantime, If you’re still in the process of looking for ways to maintain consistency with your wellness routine or to get back on track, you’re in the right place. I’m sharing today some of the things that worked for me and what I recommend to finally crush your fitness goals in 2021.
Fitness goals… My experience and point of view
Ok, so I must say I’m obsessed with the idea of living a healthy life. It’s more than just a passion, for me, it’s a mission to be able to accomplish a healthy body physically and mentally, as well as helping others do the same. Being healthy is more than just a goal, it’s a lifestyle. So the way I always view fitness is the impact that it has on the way you feel and look now, as well as in your later years. I mean, who doesn’t want to age gracefully? Who doesn’t want to feel great, have more energy without depending on expensive medications? That, folks, is what I call quality of life. Let’s talk about fitness goals starting this 2021.
Set realistic fitness goals and intentions
So, this time I will go beyond just setting up new year’s resolutions. It’s so common to write out what we want to achieve for the new year, and that includes wellness and fitness goals. But here’s the thing, how many times have you started a new year in the past wanting to lose weight, join a gym or even drink more water? Most likely, a dozen. However, for some reason, you always seem to struggle to keep up with your intentions throughout the entire year.
I won’t pick your brain this time, but I was guilty of this same thing in the past. Most of us tend to start over a new year with a “reset” mindset or “getting things right” from scratch. This is not altogether wrong, but we tend to have a perfectionist mindset, that in reality doesn’t work. Being realistic is key to start creating habits that will last in the long term. Ditch the perfection rule here, progress is better than perfection. It’s easier to improve on daily habits each day, than to try to do things perfect the first time. That’s the main reason why a lot of people with fitness goals who start “dieting” fail in the long run.
Think further…
To give you a few examples: Did you overindulge during the holidays? Ok, it happens, but start by including healthier food choices rather than engaging in severe food restrictions for a few weeks. Did you miss workouts? Ok, let’s try adding some morning walks or getting more days a week of physical activity. Do you want to lose weight? Well, you may want to lose 10-20 lbs in 10 days, but will that be healthy for the sake of your body and mind? Will that be sustainable? I bet you it won’t. Therefore, let’s focus on creating healthy habits that you can keep in the long run and will get you to the fitness goals you’re looking for.
Have patience and be at peace with yourself
This is more than a cliche phrase, it actually works for me. Patience is a virtue, and it’s certainly key when it comes to your fitness goals. Impatience only leads us to using desperate measures and frustration. Fitness is really a journey, not a destination. Losing weight, for example, takes a lot of self love and determination. It’s not an overnight thing. The same goes for getting fit. If you’re looking to change your body composition (gain muscle, lose fat), or look with great abs, it takes a lot of time, discipline and dedication. Don’t beat yourself up! Embrace the progress in getting your fitness goals.
Approach to getting back on track
In my previous blog post about getting back on track I cover some advice on how to start with daily healthy habits in an effective way. The most important thing here is to get into the right mindset that leads you to great fitness results. Feeling guilty for indulging during the holidays, or for gaining a few pounds will only lead you to engage in unhealthy activities like over exercising, “cleansing”, and even restricting from important nutrients that your body needs. These behaviors will only ruin your fitness goals. Focus on a healthy mindset approach, pick up on where you left off with healthy habits and develop peace of mind.
Should I go on a diet?
If you’ve been following my blog articles for a while, you may have noticed that I discourage any restrictive dieting or unhealthy behaviors that deprive you from getting the right nutrition. As a nutritionist, I’ve seen too many people falling for the same “fad diets” that only make matters worse. Eating regimens that force you to cut out entire food groups, promote use of expensive “cleanses” or “fat burners”, fasting so that you eat less calories, and many others will only make you go around in circles with your weight loss and fitness goals. The best thing you can do is to ditch the “dieting mindset”, learn how to eat the right way by focusing on nourishing your body rather than depriving is what you need to get fit. Look for certified advice before starting any “diet plan” on your own. I’m here to help you.
How to eat better to achieve fitness goals?
Well, it all depends on the specific goals you’re trying to achieve. Are you trying to lose weight? Are you focusing on losing fat and gaining muscle? Are you looking to feel more energized? You’ll need specific guidance here. But, in general, the rule that applies for better wellness results is to focus on eating more whole foods. Getting enough protein in your meals, healthy fats and fiber is the solution to improve your body composition and boost your metabolism.
It’s more important how you eat during the entire day than the supplements you consume. I also have a guide on workout snacks before and after you exercise. Eating right before you workout is key to fuel your body with the energy it needs to get your muscles going. Also, getting the right nutrition after exercise is needed to build and replenish your muscles, as well as to stimulate better fat burn.
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How to train for my fitness goals?
It all depends on your specific body goals you’re pursuing, as well as your own physical activity choices. There are tons of exercises you can try, not only at gym, but also at home and outdoors. Do you enjoy low impact exercises like yoga or pilates? Do you prefer running outdoors or are you the gymaholic type like me? Whichever exercises you choose, the clue is that you enjoy doing and you can stick to. In my blog, you can also find a guide on my favorite at-home workouts to crush your fitness goals. Apart from that, focus on getting your body toned, not skinny. Learn how to workout and still keep your curves.
Consider setting a budget for your fitness goals
Planning is essential in a fitness lifestyle. Everything becomes easier and effective. I plan my meals but I also set a schedule for my workouts. Budgeting also makes things a lot more organized and helps you stick to a healthier regimen. Having a budget prevents you from making last minute decisions like poor food choices or even falling out of workout routine. And, the best part is you don’t have to break the bank. If you’re looking for ways to eat healthier on a budget, check this previous post.
Stress management is key
Too much stress can affect your fitness goals. Stress is one of the main reasons why people tend to overeat or make poor food choices. If you are constantly stressed out, then your body may go into fat storing mode and it will be harder to lose weight. Besides that, getting into a fitness regimen benefits your stress levels. Something as simple as going for a morning workout or stretching, can help you relieve a lot of anxiety.
Your gut also matters if you’re looking to get fit
Don’t forget your gut! Having a leaky gut or being bloated are reasons why many people struggle to lose weight. Inflammation causes your body to store excess fat and affects your metabolism. If you’ve been having issues with your gut health, eating enough probiotics and adding some ACV to your meals will boost your digestive system.
Improve your immune system
Having your immune system will not only prevent you from getting infections, but also improve your metabolism. This is key for you to have a healthy weight. Now, more than ever, is the best time to get your immune system on point. Check out more on immune system booster foods here.
Find your own motivation
What drives you to get on a fitness lifestyle? I shared with you above some of the things that motivate me to have a healthy lifestyle everyday. Maybe you’re looking to enhance your self-esteem. You may be in a place where you would like to enjoy more freedom from food anxiety and bingeing. You may also want to improve your mood and feel more energized each day. Whatever it is, find the reason that helps you move each day towards your fitness goals.
Get a workout buddy or accountability partner
It could be your neighbor, a close friend or even your romantic partner, but having someone that helps you get closer to a healthier lifestyle is worth keeping close. It’s not always easy to start and keep going on your own. But, if you find someone in your surroundings that shares the same interests and fitness goals, why not have them as accountability partners?
Finally, starting a fitness lifestyle and being consistent
Being consistent is the hardest part. But trust me, once you start adapting small habits that turn into a lifestyle, it will be much easier to stick to your fitness goals. Understanding that a fitness journey takes time, self-love, patience, and a balanced mindset will take you a far way and will get you sustainable results. Focus on progression rather than perfection. Let me know your fitness goals for 2021 in the comment section below. Share these words with someone who wants to get to the next wellness level like you!
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links, and I will earn a commission if you purchase through these links. Please note that I’ve linked to these products purely because I recommend them and they are from companies I trust. There is no additional cost to you.
