The new year is here and some people have certain goals or resolutions for 2020.
However, most people don’t keep them, especially when it comes to fitness.
“People want to see quick results,” said Lisa McNeil, fitness manager at Riverside Wellness and Fitness Center in Newport News.
And contrary to popular belief, the gym is not crowded the first week of January.
“Most people don’t start until the full week after the holidays, like on the 7th as opposed to January 1st,” McNeil said.
People stick to their resolutions for a couple months and by April or May, the gym attendance goes back to normal because gym goers workout outside and those with new year’s resolutions leave, McNeil said.
So why do people give up?
McNeil said the biggest issue is people trying to do too much only to end up sore for days, and while people have good intentions, their mindset may be to blame.
Michael Bennet, regional director for the Peninsula Metropolitan YMCA, agrees.
“People need to have a realistic goal when they start out,” he said. “We don’t want people to feel like they have to work out hard for like an hour.”
How to stay motivated
McNeil said a big trend: People new to working out or those who have not worked out in a long time are looking for personal trainers.
“It gives them a sense of accountability,” she said.
Both McNeil and Bennett recommend bringing a friend along to workout and scheduling an appointment with a wellness coach or personal trainer to create a personalized exercise plan catered to your individual fitness goals.
“Don’t feel intimidated or embarrassed about coming in,” Bennett said. “You can bring a friend for a bit to get comfortable for a couple of visits.
