Our fit mom Danyelle Mastarone continues her fit 4 series and today she discusses the pitfalls to New Year’s Resolutions and how NOT to fail this time around.

* Please note Danyelle is a Beatles fanatic, so be sure to notice hidden musical references as you read along.

You say you want a Revolution…I mean resolution. One of the most common New Year’s resolutions I hear is “I want to lose weight” or “I want to start working out.”

Why is that always met with eye rolls and assumptions of failure? Here are 4 common reasons why and some helpful advice to conquer your goals in 2023.

Following Fad Diets Instead of Tried-and-True Nutrition Advice

If we have learned anything about fad diets, it is that they are for The Fool on the Hill. With fad diets we may temporarily see some change but fads generally do not work long term. Eating quality, clean, whole foods will always be king.

When looking at nutrition I like to take a whole foods approach. Food should grow or have a mother. What does that mean? Did what you eat come from an animal or did it grow naturally from the ground or a tree? If the answer is no… maybe, you shouldn’t eat it.

Unfortunately, losing weight does not happen quick. The same advice goes for cleanses. Unfortunately, again, you can’t juice the fat out.

The best “cleanse” is to start putting clean foods into your body and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.

Also remember to supplement wisely. Find a quality multivitamin and body specific supplements. For me, PEAK ATP^® in the morning and myHMB^® throughout the day keeps me burning fat while maintaining the lean muscle I’ve worked so hard for.

Find a Comfortable Atmosphere

Look around for the right fit for your specific needs. Make sure your environment not only suits your goals but is a place you feel comfortable.

If super stoic yogis intimidate you, find a place with a beginner’s class. Do meatheads annoy you? Try a more mainstream gym. If you enjoy running, head to a scenic trail rather than your local neighborhood where you may get distracted. I like to use the AllTrails App as a resource for excellent trails.

Whatever venue you decide upon, take some time to familiarize yourself with it. Use the first day to walk around and get to know the equipment or the community. And always ask for Help! if you need it.

Feeling lost? Pay a trainer for a few sessions to teach you proper technique and form will pay for itself in time. Or find a group fitness class to follow along.

Set Clear, Measurable Goals

If your goal is too vague, it will be near impossible to track and plan.

You want to lose weight. Great, but that’s vague. Losing 1 pound per week is a goal.
Starting to workout is a great idea, but again vague. Strength training three times a week for 30 minutes is a goal.
“I want to start running” sounds like fun. Training for a 5K in the spring is a goal.

Specific plans will help keep you on track as well as hold you accountable for a finish date. Continue to set small goals throughout the year but start with those very specific and measurable goals.

Stick with It

Good things come to those who wait.. and work their butt off! It may take weeks to notice physical changes on the outside, so trust the process and know It’s Getting Better.

Maybe you were keeping pace until life happened and you fell off the wagon. Keep your head up and start again. Don’t throw away all the work you have put in regardless of how long of a hiatus you took. There are more days left ahead of you than the ones you missed behind you.

Remember, you’re not just setting a goal, you’re trying to change your life for the better. Be consistent and your good habits will soon become a healthy lifestyle.

All My Loving,