We have all made Resolutions or Promises starting a New Year. Goals are good, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-Frame for completing) goals are better and moderation in deciding what our goals will be for the new year is best.

The holidays are fun but can leave us feeling as if we ate our weight in desserts or not so good food. We may have been distracted with family gatherings and didn’t get all of our planned work outs in which may leave us feeling frumpy. The new year can give us that shiny new feeling of here I come 2022!

Start your new year with a goal of a healthier lifestyle. That’s broad and here are some tips to narrow it down. Remember, moderation in any goal will be more doable and show results faster.

Food:

This is a toughy. Start by throwing out all of the holiday goodies, if you see it, you’re more apt to eat it. Make meal plans or consider using the many meal plan companies that send good food directly to you with directions on how to cook them and everything you need to prepare the meals. If weight control is a big goal for you, consider signing on with a nutritionist, one that is familiar with your goals and can guide you through a good plan. Accountability can be key here.

Exercise:

We all need to move and getting started can be the hardest part. Start small and build from there. The new year can bring questionable weather but there are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors during this time of year, snowshoeing, cross country skiing or even just bundling up and going for a walk with someone can reap benefits. Treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes are all reasons to not miss a planned work out. If you do decide to be part of the many that join health clubs at this time of year to reach their goals, consider classes, they are fun, energetic and will inspire you to come back.

If your goal is a big race later in the year, consider hiring a coach to help you build towards that race in a safe and progressive manner. This is the time to start building base miles especially if you are planning for the big show at the Leadville Trail 100 Mile Run. Don’t procrastinate, this may lead to injuries when the weather is improving and you have new motivation to train.

Attitude:

I’m no psychologist but dealing with athletes for over 20 years, I have noticed many people get into a little funk during the winter. Teaming up with a buddy to do a work out will help keep you accountable and makes the work out more fun. There is a saying, “There is no bad weather, only bad clothing.” Don’t let a gloomy day decide whether you move or not. Movement releases endorphins and we all know how good that feels.

Once you’ve braved the elements, the mind set and got your movement completed, pat yourself on the back, post on social media and ok, have a treat, hopefully a good one.

The shortest day of the year is December 21st, the Winter Solstice. I heard Bill Whitaker say the other day on 60 Minutes, “After the Winter Solstice, we all have a brighter future till June.” Happy Healthy New Year!