It’s the middle of January, and the signs of the New Year fitness rush are everywhere. Yesterday, I went to Eastlink for a walk around the track, and it was packed. The parking lot was overflowing, the swimming lanes were full, and the track was bustling. But the reality is this: in a month, it’ll be easier to find a parking spot. The track will be quieter. The pool lanes will be open. The crowds will thin out.
And that’s hugely disappointing.
Every January, people set New Year’s resolutions with the best of intentions—usually to improve their health, get fit, or lose weight. They sign up for gym memberships, buy new runners, and show up ready to make a change. But something happens between January and February that derails their progress. What starts with enthusiasm often fades into frustration, boredom, or confusion.
Why does this happen, and what can we do about it?
The Problem: Good Intentions Alone Aren’t Enough
The problem isn’t a lack of motivation or effort. Most people start the year genuinely wanting to improve their health and fitness. They’re willing to show up. The issue is that they don’t know what to do next.
For many, the routine gets boring quickly. Walking on the treadmill or circling the track day after day feels monotonous. Without variety, progress slows, and workouts stop feeling rewarding. Others venture into the gym but feel intimidated by the rows of unfamiliar machines or lack the confidence to lift weights. Without a clear plan, people lose momentum—and then they quit.
To make things worse, traditional gym memberships don’t always set people up for success. You might have access to equipment, but unless you hire a personal trainer or know exactly how to structure your workouts, it’s easy to stagnate. That’s why so many people abandon their resolutions by February.
The Solution: Find Guidance and a Plan That Works
The good news is that it doesn’t have to be this way.
The key to long-term success is structure, support, and accountability. Instead of going it alone, find a program or community that will guide you through those crucial first weeks and keep you progressing over time.
At VIGOR, we’ve built our entire approach around solving this problem. You don’t just walk in and figure it out on your own. You start with an on-ramp program—a series of personal training sessions designed to teach you proper technique, build your confidence, and ease you into fitness at your own pace.
Some people might see this as a barrier to entry. But think of it as an investment in your long-term success. Those initial sessions set the foundation for everything that follows. Once you’re in a class, you’ll always have a coach giving you instruction, feedback, and encouragement. You’ll know exactly what to do and how to do it.
This level of support is what makes the difference between sticking with your resolution and giving up.
Tips to Stay on Track This Year
If you’re determined to make this the year you keep your resolutions, here are a few tips:
- Start with a plan. Don’t rely on guesswork or wander around the gym aimlessly. Whether it’s hiring a coach, joining a class, or following a structured program, having a plan will keep you focused.
- Find a community. Exercising with others keeps you motivated and accountable. Surround yourself with people who encourage and inspire you.
- Add variety to your routine. Don’t do the same workout every day. Mix it up with strength training, cardio, and functional movements to keep things interesting and prevent burnout.
- Celebrate small wins. Progress takes time, so celebrate the little victories along the way—like lifting a heavier weight or walking a longer distance.
- Don’t go it alone. If you’re unsure how to use the equipment or structure your workouts, seek help. A coach or trainer can make all the difference.
Make 2025 the Year You Succeed!
This time next year, will you still be working toward your goals—or will they be a distant memory? The choice is yours.
The difference between success and failure often comes down to the support you have along the way. At VIGOR, we’re here to make sure you don’t just start strong—you stay strong.
Let’s make this the year you stick with your resolution and achieve your health and fitness goals! We’ll help you every step of the way. Book an intro HERE to see how we can get you started.
