Remain on the fitness train

Am I attacking my goals with activities I enjoy?
Your chance of success greatly increases when you choose activities that are meaningful to you. You're more likely to prioritize your workouts and complete them if you value the outcome. The latest craze at Heavens Fitness in Calgary is Stripper-size -- an aerobics class where women learn to "release the inner diva" through strip-inspired gyrations and attitude that disguises the workout with a whole lot of fun and silliness. Try something new where you live. Re-visit a lost passion for dance. Take your beloved dog on walks through neighbourhoods or parks with lots of hills and stairs. Check out sport clubs in your city and retry sports you haven't played in years. Think carefully about an activity that could really fire you up.

Have you picked a good time to exercise or a great friend to exercise with?
It's no secret. Not everyone likes to exercise. That doesn't change the fact that your body still needs it and your mind will love you for it. If you can't seem to find fitness that fits for you, try the following two strategies to improve your chances of exercising. The first is to choose a workout time with the least expected interruptions and/or when your energy levels are highest. The second is to exercise with a buddy. On a bad day, your buddy relates to, and suffers with you, making sure you at least have fun while you share your frustrations. Also, a buddy holds you accountable when you try to bail out of exercise sessions, and is there to celebrate with you when the results start to show -- and they will.

3. Beware of your inner censors
What do you say when you talk to yourself? Our days regularly start with an internal dialogue (or self talk) that describes us to ourselves. Your inner dialogue can be an effective aid if the thoughts are positive and empowering: "Today is going to be a great day! I'm alive, healthy, and happy, and I am going to the gym just because I can!" Your subconscious brain believes what it hears most often, and the strongest message always wins. Choose today to start talking to yourself with more kindness and support. Congratulate yourself for every attempt at exercise. If the amount seems insignificant, remember that every effort adds up, and it's better to do a little than nothing at all. Eventually your positive attitude (read A more positive you) will resonate in many aspects of your day, and before you know it, you'll love yourself and your efforts to be more fit this year.

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