Our advice? Don't go it alone. Finding support online – in the form of fitness communities and forums – can be a great way to stay the course to a healthier new you.
1. Power in (virtual) numbers
Having the support of others is definitely very important, explains Roger Nahas, founder of Best Body Bootcamp. "When you have a group of people that are trying to lose weight or stick to healthy habits, they can encourage each other and push each other," he says. You are also less likely to quit when you've made a commitment to a group. It's easy to make excuses for why you aren't going to exercise today or eat healthy, but if you have to be accountable to a group – whether online or off – you are more likely to stay committed.
2. Support whenever, wherever
There will always be days when you feel like you aren't losing weight fast enough and days when you feel like you have to cheat and have some junk food, Nahas says. This is when the support your online community can really save you. "Being part of an online community allows you to express those feelings and get positive feedback that will help you stay on course."
Forums also let you to read about and relate to the problems other people are facing. "It gives you that much more reason to stick to it," he adds.
3. You're never alone
Joining an online fitness community is a great idea, says Louise Vigneault, a trainer with Can-Fit-Pro. "Why do you think Facebook has become so popular?" she asks. "It helps you develop a relationship with other people who have the same interests as you." By joining an online fitness community or forum, you are able to develop relationships and experience a sense of community and belonging, she explains.
When you are part of a group setting, you just push yourself harder and are more committed to the whole process, Nahas says. "When you see that you are not the only one struggling and finding it difficult it gives you more confidence to keep going."
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