Time for that New Year’s Resolution! Yup. “I’m going to start working out!” I hear that
several times every January. Starting off a new year with a mission to improve your
health is admirable. So Mike (our Exercise Physiologist and Personal Trainer) and I
have put together a tips list to help you get started and stay consistent.
Have a plan:
Include where to workout. Home, the gym or at work? Don’t sign up at a gym that is
out of your way. Make it on the way to or from work or at least close to home. And
don’t underestimate what you can do at home. You don’t need a gazillion dollars of
equipment to get a good workout. Does your workplace have some equipment on site?
Schedule regular times. Is your energy best in the morning, mid day or evening? For
example, if you are not a morning person, 5 AM will break your will quicker than a
hiccup.
Set easy to achieve goals:
Mike’s advice is to “Set S.M.A.R.T. goals” (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant,
Timely). Set easy to achieve goals for a 4 week period and when you nail it set the next
4 week goals.
Start a workout log/journal:
Write your goals in your log/journal as well as your workouts. What’s real cool is looking
back a few months and seeing the progress you've made. That’s good motivation!
Don’t obsess with results; focus on consistency:
Journaling and scheduling really helps with the consistency. And having a workout
partner can keep you on track. On those days you’d rather go for a beer after work your
partner will be your motivation to do the workout first. And vice versa on the days they
are feeling lazy. “Results will come with consistency, Grasshopper.”
Ask for help:
Just making good choices where and how to start can be overwhelming. Most gyms
have personal trainers that can help you get started. As an option, Mike is available to
coach you. And your insurance may cover some of the cost if it's included in your
treatment plan. The DC’s in our office will know what your needs are and can
incorporate flexibility, core and balance exercises as part of a stability program. And if
you are performing a program currently and plateau, let us know.
MLSDC 1/2019
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