New Year is about to roll around, and if you're like me, you're convinced this is the year we'll finally hit the gym more consistently, smash fitness goals, and emerge as a fitter, healthier version of ourselves.

But then life happens, motivation fizzles out, and those new workout leggings end up gathering dust at the bottom of the drawer.

Not this new year.

This is the year we ditch the cycle of broken promises and actually stick to our fitness goals. How? Well, grab your water bottle, lace up your sneakers, and let's dive in. 

First Things First: Why Are You Doing This?

Before you even think about setting a goal, let's get real about your why.

Are you motivated by the thought of finally conquering that couch-to-5k, or are you aiming to level up your existing fitness game? Understanding your motivation is key to setting realistic goals and staying committed. 

Is goal setting right for you?

Now, let's talk about goal setting. It works wonders for some, but it can feel restrictive for others.

Are you a "carrot" person, driven by rewards and achievements? Or are you more of a "stick" person, motivated by avoiding negative consequences?

If traditional goal setting hasn't worked for you in the past, maybe it's time to explore alternative approaches. Perhaps focus on building healthy habits and routines rather than fixating on specific outcomes. 

Remove the pressure of an arbitrary goal an instead define a way you want to live, and try to stick to that instead. 

Learning from the past

If you've struggled to stick to your fitness goals in the past, don't beat yourself up about it. Instead, use it as a learning experience.

What went wrong? Did you set unrealistic goals? Did life throw you a curveball? Did you lack support? Identifying past roadblocks can help you navigate them more effectively this time around. 

Breaking it down

Want to squat the equivalent of a small car or run a 5k without gasping for air every five seconds? Awesome, but let's be real, those big, audacious goals can feel overwhelming.

The key is to break them down into smaller, more manageable chunks. Instead of focusing on the final destination, set weekly and monthly milestones that feel achievable and keep you motivated along the way.

Track your progress

Remember that feeling of accomplishment when you finally tick something off your to-do list? Tracking your fitness progress can give you that same buzz.

Whether you prefer using an app like Strides or just a good old-fashioned journal, keeping a record of your workouts, your personal bests, and how far you've come can be a powerful motivator. 

Bonus tip: find your tribe

Having a supportive community can make all the difference in your fitness journey.

Find a workout buddy, join a local fitness group, or connect with like-minded people online. Sharing your struggles and triumphs with others can keep you accountable and motivated.

The bottom line

Sticking to your fitness goals is a marathon, not a sprint (unless, of course, your goal is to run a sprint). Be patient with yourself, celebrate your wins, and remember that consistency is key.