Five ways to stick to your fitness goals in 2022

It's that time of the year again when millions of people around the world promise themselves they will lose weight and take their fitness goals seriously. 

But history always repeats itself! By the time the end of January 2022 rolls in more than half of them would have abandoned their attempts to get a J.LO body. 

New Year's Resolutions are hard to stick to, and studies have shown that two-thirds of people give up by the end of January. 

By the middle of February, 80% of New Year's Resolutions have gone out the window. 

ALSO READ: Cannot fit into your old jeans? You might be at risk of diabetes 

Here's how you can make sure you achieve your fitness goals in 2022. 

Action-oriented goals

If you wrote "get fit" as one of your New Year's Resolutions, then your chances of failure are high. The goal is too general, which means there is no real pressure to do anything at all. You stand a much better chance with action-oriented goals. How much weight do you want to lose? What actions should you take every day to reach that goal? How will you monitor your progress and hold yourself accountable? 

Mental preparation

Mentally preparing yourself for your goals is also important. You will have bad days along the way, and you need to be in the right mental state to get up and keep moving. Listen to an inspiring podcast or motivational music whenever you feel like giving up. You can also create a workout playlist to get you in the mood to exercise. Don't let the setbacks prevent you from moving forward. 

ALSO READ: Stacey's Hits: The perfect workout playlist

Start today

The New Year started on Saturday this year and you can bet your last R100 that most people decided they will begin their goals on Monday. People who are serious will start the moment they commit to their goals. Don't wait for Monday to roll in, start today! 

Create a vision board 

Create a vision board and place it somewhere you will see it every day. Our minds respond well to visual stimulation, which means seeing your goals every day can be a great motivator. A vision board will remind you why you are working hard on your goals. 

Get a workout buddy 

Working out with a friend is a great way to hold yourself accountable. They'll be there to push you on those days when you don't feel like waking up in the morning. You can inspire each other to keep going and celebrate your wins. 

Reward Yourself 

Many people get so consumed by their goals that they forget to take a moment to appreciate how far they have come. Reward yourself every time you complete an action that takes you one step closer to your goals. You can treat yourself to a spa day or buy yourself a new outfit to celebrate. Just maybe not that massive slice of chocolate cake...

ALSO READ: Give your love life a boost with these three exercises

Main image courtesy of iStock/@LightFieldStudios