(Mirror Daily, United States) – The first weeks of each New Year are marked by a significant rush of people joining the gym, hoping to fulfill those well-meant fitness goals they set as New Year resolutions.
Given that this happens year in, year out, a lot of gym managers have taken notice of the sudden influx of members so they offer them discounted rates and other perks just to keep them coming.
However, those benefits are rarely enough to sustain motivation to stick to a fitness plan for more than just a few weeks. According to a report of the International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association, no less than 12 percent of all gym membership contracts are inked in the first month of the year.
Even though the subscriptions are still solid in February as well, the trend sees a significant decline by the time spring starts.
As Brian Waters, training manager at F.I.T. (Fitness In Training) explains, a lot of people think that having a gym membership will convince them to come, but that’s not always the case. When people don’t see results after the first month, they tend to stop going to the gym.
Waters explains that the lack of a clear plan or failing to understand what’s the best type of gym membership for each person in particular are the two major causes clients give up. If you’re new on the gym scene, Waters recommends a personal trainer.
Regardless of the person’s goals, more than just a few visits will be required before any results will be visible. But even if you’re in need of only a few visits, a trainer can definitely help you get on the right path.
Something that people often misunderstand is that the “right path” must include a long-term regimen. Instead of being overzealous about fitness and health at the beginning of the year – which is basically setting yourself up for failure – try to think in terms of changing your lifestyle.
Don’t make unrealistic goals: considering that you weren’t active before, scheduling to show up every day, 7 days a week, to work out for over an hour won’t be sustainable. Instead, commit to come into the gym 2-3 days a week for a start, gradually changing your fitness behavior.
If you know you’re a quick quitter, Waters suggests you should have a fitness buddy, one that could help you pursue the momentum of the New Year zeal. Working with a partner can significantly increase the results because they can hold you accountable.
Image Source: Menprovement
Matthew Slotkin
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