Getting in shape is the top resolution for many, but let's be honest, it often fades away faster than the Chanukah candles burn down. Starting an exercise routine or signing up for a gym is the easy part; the real challenge is finding a routine that delivers consistent results and is easy to stick to. Avoid these common mistakes this year:

1. Avoid Overcommitting

 "I will exercise every day for 90 minutes!" sounds great until it crashes before February. Be realistic about your goals, build up gradually, and don't rely on fleeting New Year's willpower. Small, consistent steps lead to lasting results.

2. Define Specific Goals

Vague goals like "get fit" or "lose weight" lack clarity. Specify your goals; for example, change "get fit" to "30 minutes of exercise four days a week" or "lose weight" to "shed 5 kgs before April." Specific goals keep you focused.

3. Embrace Accountability

Skipping a workout or sneaking a couple of cookies with your morning coffee will not be the end of the world. In fact, it won’t matter at all because no one but you will know.  Not having someone to be accountable to lets you off the hook to easily. Tell a friend or find a workout buddy for the first few weeks. Having someone to answer to increases commitment and reduces the temptation to cheat.

4. Make Time, Don't Find It

"I don't have time" is a common excuse but it's almost never true. Evaluate how you spend your time and make fitness a top priority. Maybe save your favorite show for after you've exercised. Success is all about changing your mindset and prioritizing your goals.

5. Stop Over-Researching

Don't let the quest for knowledge become a barrier to action. Endless research can be a procrastination trap. Start now; you can't succeed at something you never begin.

Let's make 2024 a year of tangible, sustainable changes!

Stay tuned for next week's resolution: "Eat Healthier"