So you’ve made big plans for this year. We’re pretty sure that somewhere on the top of the list, you have goals to eat healthier and exercise more. And, that’s not a surprise as those are the two most common resolutions made by people across the globe. We don’t believe that’s going to change anytime soon, but what we want to change is the way you approach these resolutions.

While resolutions can be an amazing way to bring the change you desire with your health and your life, often times they end up being a list of strict rules of eat this/don’t eat that, 14-day cleanses or hardcore workout routines that are abandoned come February.

Making drastic changes is not easy, we’re not wired to function that way. Our system is used to routines and habits that we’ve established since we were kids. So, we need to approach them that way by implementing small, fun and realistic changes that are barely noticeable. That’s how we can make them stick. And, that’s how you can finally reach your health and fitness goals and feel amazing in your body.

One of our goals this year is to bring more movement into our routine and get more fit so here are some great points to start you off and ensure you stay on the right path to victory. You can do this!

DON’T GO AT IT ALONE

Why take on this journey by yourself? Share your experience with as many people as you can. We’re social creatures and the more you motivate others the more you’ll motivate yourself. Get your family involved or gather up a few friends or colleagues and sign up to a fitness club, a HIIT program or a yoga class. You won’t only connect more with the people you know but you’ll make new friends in the process (that’s how Mirna met some of her besties in Toronto).

The more people you have supporting you the better. Plus, working out with other people makes the whole business of getting fit so much more fun. If you have buddies to go to the gym with you, you will be pushing each other to work harder. Have you noticed how you can suddenly do more squats or push-ups when you have someone around? You’ll be breaking a sweat and tightening up those quads without even realizing it. And, if you’re happy with your exercise routine then you’ll be more likely to go back week after week.

Having a friend also opens up so many more options for exercising (aren’t ab exercises awesome with a partner?). There are also some things that are just physically impossible to do alone. Having a partner gives you the opportunity to lift heavier weights and have them spot you for safety and security.

LOOK FOR ONLINE SUPPORT

What is different in our world today? Now more than ever before you have access to unlimited information. The internet is full of opinions, blogs, videos and articles on the best ways of getting fit. There are great fitness bloggers to follow to stay motivated, there are videos that show you exact techniques to perfect your form and there are great recipes online to inspire you in the kitchen. Most importantly you have access to support groups and Facebook communities where you can connect, share stories and get inspiration from individuals that are on the same path as you. It’s never been easier.

Get out there, find online communities that inspire you and we promise you’ll be rocking it at the gym and would probably make some new friends in no time.

PUMP UP THE VOLUME

We don’t know about you, but the one thing that keeps us going at the gym are some good tunes. It’s actually scientifically proven that music can help motivate you and improve your performance by refocusing your mind on the beat, enjoyment and positive emotions. This shifts your body and mind away from focusing on being tired to the activity itself, whether it’s running, biking or a HIIT workout.

It’s also important to synchronize the music to the activity so you’d want to pump it up if you’re doing a HIIT workout or sprinting and tone it down for your yoga session. There are hundreds of lists that you can find on Spotify, YouTube or iTunes.

STAY HYDRATED

When you’re working out your water and hydration requirements increase. Staying hydrated is important to keep your metabolism working, your digestive system running smoothly and having the energy to even make it to the gym. You should be aiming to drink at least two liters of water daily, and if you’re working out hard make sure to replenish yourself often. We find carrying a water bottle with us a great way to be reminded.

And as much as we like a glass of wine on the weekend, if that turns into 3 and 4 and 5 on the regular, then it may be time to cut down if you really want to see the health results you’re looking for- ‘cuz, going to the gym can be hard enough, without the added stress of a hangover. Drinking too much alcohol on the weekend also messes with our hormones and makes us more likely to reach out for unhealthy food choice. If our liver is too busy metabolizing alcohol, it won’t be able to work on other important bodily processes.

If you want to enjoy the occasional glass or cocktail, stick to wine, craft beer and cocktails without the added sugar (lime, mint and sparkling water works great and is very refreshing). Or choose to swap that gin and tonic with a cold glass of H2O.

GET IN THE RIGHT GEAR

The importance of a comfy pair of trainers can’t be underestimated. And, we ladies know that a good workout bra is essential so investing some money into new active wear will be a good idea. They’re also specially made to wick away sweat and moisture and when you’re feeling comfortable, you’ll be able to work out harder for longer.

We’re undoubtedly fans of Lululemon for our yoga gear and you can check out Monsta Clothing for the man in your life, or if you’re a hardcore workout kind of person. You know when you buy a pair of new jeans and you’re so excited to wear them. Well, it’s kinda the same with any new workout gear, we can’t wait to get into it. It’s colourful (fans of pink, you know), fun and it makes us feel pretty and confident which kind of motivates us to come back to workout again soon.

WRITE DOWN YOUR GOALS & COMMIT TO THEM

We know this is an old one, but it really does work. Set goals for yourself and more importantly, physically write them down. Writing your goals, dreams and visions makes you 42% more likely to achieve them so grab a piece of paper and ask yourself: What do I actually want to achieve? How will I get there? What makes me happy? Make sure you set yourself goals that you will have fun in accomplishing, make them realistic and achievable (e.g. I want to run 5K in 6 months > I don’t enjoy the treadmill but I love running outdoors in the park > I will start with daily 30-45min walks for the first 2 weeks, then move to brisk walking for the next 2 weeks etc.). Take baby steps until you get to your main goal. You don’t have to start with the marathon.

Don’t forget to share your goals with your friends or with your Facebook community. It not only helps to hold you accountable but inspired and motivated too.

And remember, don’t give up! Just as we say about food, just because you skipped a day or a week at the gym doesn’t mean that you can’t simply go back. That’s totally ok, simply go back to your routine. Make this the year you stick to that ‘getting fit’ resolution. What are some ways that you like to stay motivated at the gym? Let us know below.

*This is a collaborative post.