Believe it or not it’s not too early to start planning your New Year’s Resolutions now. Be ahead of the game!

Interestingly enough, I always get asked what it’s like working in the fitness industry and getting paid to do what you love everyday. And the answer is it’s great – I can’t think what else I’d rather do. However most people add on ‘oh it must be nice and quiet for you in December as a lot of people stop using the gym then’. Surprisingly enough December is one of the busiest months! Why you ask? Because we are planning for January. And so should you be…

Cut down, not out…

The best advice I can give you all is to cut down on the luxuries after Christmas rather than cutting out. Yes if you want to cut out all treats completely, then do so but I’d suggest a gradual reduction on luxurious treats rather than going cold turkey (pardon the pun). January can be quite a depressing time for all of us, just with the switching off of all the bright Christmas lights and taking away all the nice decorations. Don’t make matters worse by putting yourself on the strictest eating regime ever straight after the bells! Doing this will be extremely tough, most people will crack and that’ll be them off the fitness band wagon again for another year! A bit like my earlier blog – everything in moderation. Increase the amount you are exercising and cut down on the naughty food stuffs. Gradually, as you start feeling fitter and healthier, start cutting them out further and further until you are a clean, no-nonsense fitness machine!

Plan ahead

Plan. Plan in two ways. Firstly – if you are the typical ‘drop out of the gym at winter’ type, you need to go with it and start laying the foundations for a great start to 2016. The best thing to do now is decide on what your plan is for the New Year. When is going to be best for you to work out? Early morning, lunch, evening or weekends? Then ask yourself where you think will be best for you to workout. Scope out the nearest health club or leisure centre to your work or house and think about when is the most realistic time for you to first visit it in the New Year. Remember, also in my previous blogs, I told you that most gyms will offer a free pass or a trial of their facilities before joining, so take advantage of that. Call them now or in between Christmas and New Year, as this is when you can get their undivided attention before the January rush.

Secondly – plan. Plan your meals if possible. The age old saying of ‘you can’t out train a bad diet’ is very true. It’s the best way to ensure you stay on top of a good diet and don’t cave when you are on the run and grab the first thing in sight when you are starving.

I’m keeping it short and sharp this week, as I’ve got some exciting hints and tips for getting you fit in 2016. Look out for my next blog when all will be revealed!

Have a great Christmas and New Year and remember, enjoy yourself, relax and recharge your batteries and try not to go too crazy on the calories. Then you won’t have more inches to lose in 2016!