The New Year often brings familiar resolutions. One of the most popular? “I want to get active.” But as many of us know, making this resolution is more manageable than keeping it.
Dr. Eric Baggerman, CEO of Amistad Health, shared practical advice for those hoping to make fitness a consistent part of their lives in 2025.
The Common Pitfalls of New Year Fitness Resolutions
“I’ve certainly heard the ‘I’m going to work out this year,’ and I’ve been one of those too,” Dr. Baggerman admitted. “It starts off great, then there are pitfalls that hold us up.”
Does this sound familiar? You begin strong, but your routine unravels after missing a day or two. Dr. Baggerman noted that one common reason is overdoing it at the start. “Your body aches the next day, and we’re not going to enjoy it. It hurts while we do it, and that pain is our body trying to tell us something,” he said.
Start Small, Stay Consistent
To make your New Year resolutions stick, choosing a workout routine that matches your fitness level and brings you joy is essential. “Walking so that way one day I can run again,” said Chiara Mattaloni, who has set her sights on consistent fitness.
Mattaloni, a lifelong athlete, faced setbacks due to a running injury. However, she didn’t let that stop her. “I’m training for a half marathon right now, so I’m trying to find a balance,” she shared.
Before jumping into exercise, Dr. Baggerman advises starting with light stretches and warm-ups. Remember, your body isn’t the same as it was years ago. Don’t force it—pace yourself for long-term success.
The Mental and Social Benefits of Exercise
Exercise isn’t just about physical health; it also offers incredible mental and social benefits.
“It’s so good for my mental clarity. I love being outside, and I’ve met some amazing people through running,” Mattaloni said.
Mother of two, Randi Longoria, agrees. “It’s important to get fresh air and make friends. My kids don’t go to school yet, so this is our time to meet new people,” she said.
Find a Routine That Works for You
There’s no single way to stay active. There’s something for everyone, from walking and running to tennis, pickleball, or even group fitness classes. Dr. Baggerman recommends exploring different activities until you find something you enjoy. “If it doesn’t work, don’t give up. Just tweak it a little bit so you can make sustainable changes,” he said.
Additionally, exercising in the morning can set the tone for the day. “It gets all these endorphins going. Our mind works better, and we’re more focused,” Dr. Baggerman explained. He also cautions against exercising late in the evening as it can interfere with sleep.
Patience and Persistence: The Keys to Success
By making fitness a part of your routine, you’ll soon notice improvements in your sleep, mood, and overall quality of life. Remember, lasting change doesn’t happen overnight.
So this New Year, don’t overwhelm yourself. As the saying goes, all good things take time. Stay consistent, stay motivated, and make 2025 stick to your fitness goals.