Every year you resolve to get in shape, and every year you end up disappointed that yet another year went by without changing your bad habits? Don’t stress about it, it’s perfectly normal, and we’ve all been there. But the New Year is right around the corner (in two days, to be precise!) and so we made this guide to help you achieve this year’s resolution! If your New Year Resolution for 2020 is to finally get in shape – this short guide is for you.

Before we dive in, it’s important to note that tips for getting in shape are endless, but the most important thing to keep in mind is that it’s a process that takes time. Don’t expect to see results immediately – that’s why it’s a “new year resolution” – it might take a whole year to see results! But nonetheless, when the next year arrives (before you notice – just like this one did) you’ll be able to welcome it having achieved your goal!

Don’t be ashamed to ask for help

Going to the gym for the first time (or after a long break) is never easy. Perhaps the hardest thing about it, for most people, is feeling self-conscious about your body. Nonetheless, it’s important to remember that asking for help isn’t something to be ashamed of, on the contrary – when you’re a beginner, hitting the gym and getting advice from a professional trainer is one of the best things you can do. No, scratch that – it’s the only thing you should do: as a beginner, it’s best to ask for help from professionals, especially when it concerns your body.

Find your niche

Some people prefer running, while others enjoy a good swim. Start by testing the water (literally and figuratively) – go for a run, go for a hike, go for a swim, take a pilates class, an aerobics class or anything else that comes to mind – and see what kind of workout suits you best. If you find something that you actually enjoy, it wouldn’t feel as much like a burden, and it would make the process that much easier!

Have a plan

Any procrastinators in the crowd? If you have a clear plan in your mind (or better yet – written down in front of you as a constant reminder) – it’d be easier to keep up with it. Let’s be honest, when we don’t have something in the schedule, or a clear idea of what we want to achieve, it’s easy to procrastinate. So have a clear plan for each week (or month) for the same week (or month), divide it into smaller goals, and that way, it won’t seem as ambitious and intimidating.

Start small

As we said earlier, start small – you don’t have to dive in the deep end from the very beginning. If really out of shape as you think you are, start by walking instead of taking the bus, choosing the stairs over the elevator, and integrating these small workouts into your routine. There’s no need to hit the gym five times a week – start by once or twice – as much as you can, physically and mentally – and remember that any workout is better than no workout.

Have motivation

All this is meaningless is this isn’t something you really want to achieve. Getting into shape might be impossible if you’re not properly motivated. If we’re right, and this in fact has been your new year resolution for the past couple of years (or more), then perhaps it’s time to do it. 2020 has a nice ring to it, so we suggest it should be the year of personal fulfillment. The most important thing -Good luck!