Q. Every year I make a resolution to lose weight and get in better shape. What can I do to actually make this resolution a reality? —Jenny
A. Fitness and weight resolutions rank at the top for most Americans. And just like you, most of us find it hard to keep our promises.
Simplify
I’ve found the secret to success is to make less lofty goals and strive for simplicity. For example, if you’d like to lose weight, resolve to lose 5 pounds in 6 weeks. To your psyche this sounds much less daunting than, say, lose 30 pounds and run the NYC marathon. Setting your sites on small numbers with a realistic timeframe attached can do wonders.
Crawl first
The next “baby step” is committing to an action plan that doesn’t require a spreadsheet or satellite alignment to track your progress.
Choose one or two small changes you can make in your daily routine, such as:
--Don’t anything 3 hours before bedtime
--Get lattes without sugar and whole milk
--Go to bed one hour earlier than usual
--Drink more water
--Say no to second helpings
--Choose far away parking spots
Get help
This is not a sign of weakness! A support system is crucial to attaining any goal, fitness or otherwise. You’ll be more accountable (read: successful) if you have someone checking in on you and cheerleading.
Support can come in many forms:
--Ask your partner to walk with you one night a week after dinner
--Hire a personal trainer to give you a plan. HINT: Most Baby Boot Camp instructors are certified personal trainers with additional training in prenatal and postpartum fitness. Ask your instructor if she is taking new clients.
--Get a friend to call or e-mail you once a week to give you a pep talk
--Buy a pedometer or Strollometer to track your steps. HINT: Watch for information on a nationwide challenge where Baby Boot Camp locations will measure their stroller distances throughout February and compete for fabulous prizes!
--Go to Baby Boot Camp class at least once a week. The camaraderie from like-minded women will give you the boost you need
Once you’ve set yourself up for success and attain one of your New Year’s goals, you’ll be able to fine tune what motivates you and move onto your next “simple” resolution.