WITH THE NEW YEAR JUST AROUND THE CORNER, IT’S IMPORTANT TO START THE RIGHT WAY & PLAN TO SUCCEED.

While many people start a new fitness program in January, many more will be abandoning theirs and returning to a cycle of unhealthy living because they fall for the FAD diets that promise results from little work.

Here are our top 5 tips to increase your chances of success:

1. SET CLEAR GOALS AND TIMEFRAMES!

You wouldn't try archery with a blindfold on, would you? Set a goal that you can see.

It is great to have goals that stretch you and shape you for the future, but what many fail to do is break down your long-term goals into smaller tasks and activities that you can work towards every day. This will give you double the satisfaction and motivation when hitting each goal.

Have a checklist! You can cross off when you are doing something that moves you closer to your overall goal, every day, every week and every month.

2. BE PRACTICAL, GROW YOUR OWN KNOWLEDGE

Do your research online and in the gym! Speaking to someone more experienced than you or even watching videos on YouTube will make the skills and tools you need to make your goals more attainable.

This could be as simple as researching how to perform the perfect squat for your body type, how to build muscle and burn fat simultaneously for your body type, or how to cook nutritious foods.

3. BE IN CONTROL OF YOUR NUTRITION

This is no.3 in the list, but do not be fooled!

NUTRITION IS 80% of the ultimate health package!

You can have the most solid, flawless workout plan and still not hit your goals if your nutrition is not as up to scratch as your training!

Dependent on your goals, your nutrition plan must be tailored to YOU and set YOU up for success. You need to be certain that you are getting the right amount of protein, carbohydrates, and fats in the right quantities in order to push and nourish your body effectively.

The most efficient way to measure and keep on track of your nutritional intake is to use My Fitness Pal.

4. YOU DON'T NEED TO DO IT ALONE!

Studies show that having someone to achieve your goals with, like a gym partner or a personal trainer will increase your likelihood of achieving your goals.

In pursuit of your health and fitness goals make sure you choose someone who can have a moan at you for the times you make excuses or decide to skip the gym altogether because we all have those days, so a little push won't hurt!

Having someone by your side every step of the way can give you the support and motivation you need to push you through the mental rough waters.

5. REWARD YOURSELF

Finally, it’s important to reward yourself for your achievements!

This will keep you motivated and give you extra incentive for staying on track and enjoy some of the smaller wins along the way to that end-goal.

Rewarding yourself can be as simple as a new workout accessory/gym-wear or even an indulgent meal! (ONE MEAL, NOT A DAY'S WORTH)   

Keep us updated with your fitness goals @LoDough.co