We all know that most New Year’s Resolutions fail.

But do you know why?

Here’s one possible explanation. Most people set a massive goal for their resolution, and when they start trying to make that goal come true, they get frustrated by its overwhelming nature.

Does this sound familiar?

Did you ever resolve to, say…

• • • • • Lose a great deal of weight?
      • Or go to the gym six days a week for 90 minutes?
    • Or meditate for an hour every morning?

And then… quickly realized how challenging such huge tasks are and just gave up altogether?

If you have, then you’re not alone. If you haven’t, you’ve obviously never made a New Year’s Resolution!

Start Small

Try something different this January – or any time you want to build a new habit.

Start small. For example:

• If you want to lose a great deal of weight, then maybe start eating one healthy meal daily.
• If you want to exercise regularly, start with a 15-minute walk three days a week, add a few minutes a day the second week, and so on.
• If you want to establish a meditation practice, try to meditate for 1 minute each morning for a week. Seriously – set a timer! Add another minute each day during the second week, and so on.

Another brilliant tip, popularized by the best-selling book “Atomic Habits,” is to stack the new habit onto an existing one. For example, go for that morning walk immediately after you brush your teeth.

Try it. It works.

Build on each small success, getting stronger at each step. You wouldn’t expect to be fluent in a new language in your first class, would you? Of course not!

Most resolutions are about ABSTAINING from something – or punishing yourself for “bad” behavior. But this new approach is about setting realistic expectations for POSITIVE change.

Remember, it’s never too late for that.

We’re Here to Help

Regarding fitness, remember that you have succeeded at reaching countless goals in your life. You have a track record of success to draw on. It’s one of the great blessings of being a little bit older, isn’t it?

You’ve set big goals and reached them in the past. In your career, in raising your kids, in saving for retirement.

Getting in shape – or staying in shape – is no different.

We want to help you build exercise, and overall healthy living, into your daily routine. Consistency is key to getting good results and a long, strong life.

So is having plenty of support around you.

So is having people hold you accountable.

So is being gentle enough with yourself that you acknowledge your progress.

You get all that and more with our effective, safe and fun approach. Let’s start building your new habits today by trying our 21-Day Longevity and Strength Program. Our team of functional aging specialists will help you reach your New Year’s resolution.

Happy shopping! If you still have fitness-minded folks over 50 on your shopping list, we’re here with this 2022 Fitness Gift Guide. These represent a range of prices, goods, and services, all to help that special person exercise and enjoy a healthy lifestyle.

1. E-Bike. More than just a fad, e-bikes are here to stay. They give you a range of boosts to help you keep riding longer. Surveys show that you still get great exercise, and you’re more likely to use them more than regular bikes. Prices vary widely; this best-seller on Amazon is on sale for $1,000.
2. Drink Coasters That Look Like Barbell Plates. These are whimsical and give a bit of friendly support to the lifter on your list. And now the cheapest item – just $12.99.
3. Adjustable dumbbells. They’re handy around the house, garage, or home gym. These kinds of items also come in various prices, weights, and quality.
4. A Theragun. These hand-held massage devices above made a big splash and have been showing up in gyms and studios everywhere. They offer deeper muscle treatment to soothe chronic and acute pain, release tension and soreness, and improve circulation, flexibility and sleep from $149.
5. Resistance bands are low-tech but are also handy to have. They’re available from many rubber and fabric retailers, starting at around $10. They can provide a good workout at home and are super simple to toss in a suitcase for travel. Here’s just one example, Fit Simplify, available on Amazon.com.
6. A new mat. Maybe it’s time to get a new one, or it’ll be the first. Either way, it’s great to have a mat handy for home workouts or to take to yoga or Pilates class. Also affordable by countless retailers.
7. Weighted blankets. Studies show that weighted blankets help us calm down, feel secure, and rest better. And rest is one of the essential elements of fitness.
8. Skid-Proof Socks. Everybody loves getting new socks, especially when they have rubber on the bottom to keep you from slipping on floors at home or in yoga class. They’re low cost and high value.
9. Bhu Bars are keto-friendly, low-sugar, organic, and vegan. The best thing is they’re insanely delicious in flavors like chocolate chip, peanut butter, and coconut. Hit your macros, whatever they might be, and fight hunger with these healthy snacks.
10. Headspace App. Mindfulness and meditation can seem intimidating to newbies. But this friendly, fun, and effective smartphone app makes it easy to gain benefits. $70 a year.

Of course, the best gift is your time and attention. So, go on a walk, bike ride with people you love, or whatever outdoor activity appeals to you. Treat them to a meal at their favorite healthy restaurant. Better yet, see us and start your 2023 fitness journey by trying our 21-Day Strength and Longevity Program,  the best year for everyone involved. Happy Holidays!