Posted on 19 December 2023
By Claire Floquet, Active IQ Ambassador
As the New Year approaches, many people find themselves inspired to make a fresh start and implement some positive changes in their lives. Fitness resolutions often top this list, and personal trainers and fitness instructors are witnessing this from the front lines. Training inquiries sharply rise, the gym gets jam-packed, and classes are overbooked.
That’s great! However, in my 5 years of practice as a Personal Trainer and Fitness Instructor, I've experienced the common pitfall of these resolutions: they tend not to last. The enthusiasm of January joiners quickly fades out, and by February, most of them have vanished from the gym and our clients’ books.
How can we overcome this and keep New Year resolutioners motivated in the long run - for our benefit but, most importantly, for theirs? In this blog article, I would like to explore, based on my experience, some of the key tips to successfully turning timely resolutions into sustainable, long-term habits.
Set Realistic Goals:
The excitement of a fresh start can lead to setting overly ambitious goals. Instead of aiming to shed two stones in a month, shape a muscular body for Easter, or work out every single day, help your clients set achievable goals. For example, target a realistic weight loss of a pound per week or commit to exercising three times a week. Such goals are more attainable and sustainable in the long run. Your clients will see that they are meeting their short-term goals, helping them stay motivated for the long haul.
‘Tailor-Make’ Your Plans:
Instead of jumping into an intense workout routine or recommending the latest diet trend, focus on creating a plan that aligns with your client’s preferences and lifestyle. Ask them about their likes and dislikes so that you can choose activities they enjoy and advise on food that is both nutritious and satisfying for them. Inquire about their daily routine to ensure they can fit their workouts and meal preparation almost seamlessly into their life. The less disruptive the plan feels, the more likely it will become a lasting habit for your client.
Build Gradually:
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is a lasting fitness routine. Begin with manageable changes and gradually increase intensity, duration, or complexity. This approach not only prevents burnout but also allows your client’s body to adapt, reducing their risk of injury.
Make It Fun and Varied:
Boredom is a common factor leading to the dropout of fitness resolutions. Keep things interesting by incorporating a variety of exercises into your client’s routine. Encourage them to try different workout classes, outdoor activities, or sports to keep both their body and mind engaged.
Praise and Encourage:
Clients’ motivation is closely linked to the feeling of making progress towards their goals. This is not always obvious, as progress can come in small steps, and setbacks can happen along the way. As a Personal Trainer, you should help your client realise that every little step is a success and part of the journey. Make sure you highlight and celebrate their progress, big or small. Explain that setbacks are natural and should be considered as opportunities to learn and grow. Praise and encouragement is essential!
Track Progress and Celebrate Milestones:
Having objective evidence of progress can also be a great motivator for clients. Make sure you keep track of their performance - this can be done through a journal of their workouts or regular, comparable fitness assessments. Objectively tracking progress will also enable you to celebrate milestones along the way. Whether it's dropping a dress size, lifting that heavy weight, or completing that challenging set, always recognize and celebrate your client’s accomplishments. This will reinforce their adherence to the plan and encourage their continued effort.
Promote Recovery:
Rest and recovery are as crucial as exercise itself. Overtraining can lead to burnout and injuries, derailing your client’s progress and commitment. Ensure you incorporate adequate rest days, promote sleep, and consider activities like yoga or stretching to enhance recovery. This also applies to food: leave room for a ‘cheat day’ in your client’s plan!
Seek Expert Guidance:
Some clients might require more than what you are qualified for or specialise in. This can be for physical fitness, nutrition, or mental health. If you find yourself unsure about the best approach for a client, consider consulting another professional who has the required qualification and expertise. Your client will appreciate getting personalised, appropriate support under your recommendation, and they will greatly benefit from it.
In summary...
I would say that the key to turning New Year fitness resolutions into lasting change lies in cultivating healthy habits. By setting realistic goals, creating a personalised plan, building gradually, and highlighting progress at every step of the way, you can support New Year resolutioners on a fitness journey that lasts and transforms their entire lifestyle. Here's to plenty of healthier, happier clients in the coming year!