For many, the new year means a new perspective, and for some, the goal is to get in better shape. The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas is preparing for an influx of new members and signups over the next few weeks, according to Kimberly Graber, Association Director of Personal Training.
“With endless diet trends and ‘quick fixes’ it can be difficult to figure out where to start. The best method is to go back to basics – the most important part of your health and wellness journey is determining your purpose – be specific,” said Graber. “Think about why you’re investing in your health. Is it so you can be around longer to watch your grandchildren grow up? Is it because you want to improve your mental health? Dig deep and use that reason as fuel to get started.”
The more targeted you are with your purpose, the more detailed your plan is, and the more likely you will execute that plan.
Here are three key steps, according to Graber, that everyone should include in their health and wellness journey once you have determined your purpose:
1. Be Realistic
Your current lifestyle is years of doing the same thing over and over again. Do not expect to make changes overnight, you have to start small implementations over time to form new habits. If you don’t already go to the gym, don’t start by saying you will go five times a week, consider starting with a 20-minute walk or a 20-minute at-home workout a couple of times a week. Once you’ve become consistent, then begin adding more days or weight to your routine. Research says that it takes roughly 21 days to form a new habit and 90 days to make it part of your lifestyle. Give yourself some grace.
2. Discipline over Motivation
Motivation is fleeting, you can’t rely on this alone. Discipline is doing the hard work even on days when you don’t feel like it. But there is a fine line – there will be times when you are not able to give 100 percent and that’s ok! It’s better to give 50 percent effort than to skip the workout entirely or binge. It’s about consistency and chipping away at your goal, not being perfect.
3. Celebrate Your Wins
Showing up is one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself. Be proud of your efforts, no matter how small. If you’ve been able to run a little longer than the week before or if you've learned how to make more healthy meals at home – celebrate it. Each time you acknowledge these moments, you’re creating more positive reinforcement which can encourage you to keep going.
"The YMCA of Metropolitan Dallas offers several programs that support every fitness level and we now have launched Virtual YMCA, an online platform dedicated to nutrition courses, yoga classes, low-impact workouts, healthy recipes, and more. It’s a convenient solution to help stay fit and healthy from the comfort of your home," said Graber.
To learn more about the Y’s virtual programming, visit ymcadallas.org/virtual
