What’s So Special About January 1, anyway?

January 21, 2015 • Services, Village News

Maybe you didn’t get around to setting New Year’s resolutions. Or maybe you did, and you’ve already fallen off the wagon. Either way, you’re not alone.

Researchers at the University of Scranton found that 45% of Americans typically make New Year’s resolutions. Of those, 75% maintain their resolution through the first week of January – and the numbers drop from there. Only 46% of resolutions are still standing after 6 months. And if you want to get really depressed? Consider that a mere 8% of Americans are successful in achieving their resolutions.

The top New Year’s resolution for 2014 – and probably every year – was losing weight.

Considering the overall success rate of resolutions, it’s tempting to just grab the Ben & Jerry’s and curl up on the couch. But not so fast!

Whether you’re setting a new intention or trying to get back on track with a New Year’s resolution, there are easy ways to spark change in your life. Here are 5 tips for that most popular resolution: weight loss.

• Put it in your calendar. If it’s in your calendar, an appointment is official and important, right? What could be more important than taking care of yourself? Put your workouts in your schedule, and treat them like high priorities.
• Play. Run around with the dogs, or get down on the floor with the kids. Being active in new ways can rekindle your desire to move. Plus, what kids call “play” is very often exercise.
• Try something new. If the same old activities are getting you the same old results, break out of that rut. Don’t be intimidated by trying a new class or getting a personal trainer. We were all beginners at some point.
• Do a short workout. Small amounts of time can create big results. Try a 30-minute kickboxing class with 9Round. A new workout begins every 3 minutes, so you can jump in when it’s convenient for you.
• Get support. Working out with a group or a trainer helps you feel accountable. On those days when you might let yourself off the hook, other people counting on you to work out can get you to the gym.

January 1 seems to be the official day for new beginnings. But any day is a good day to start fresh. Be kind to yourself and take 1 day at a time in your journey to good health.