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New Year, New You? 5 key steps to getting there!

Success starts in knowing yourself
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Working on a new fitness plan this year? Honestly evaluate your likes and dislikes, your goals and what will help you achieve them.

If, like many, you’re hoping the new year will lead to a ‘new you,’ taking the time to chart your course for success can pay off.

You’ll not only arrive at your wellness destination sooner, but you’ll get there with fewer roadbumps and wrong turns along the way!

“I have a few key things I like to remind people of because I see them year after year,” says Lisa Banks, Fitness Programmer at Saanich Commonwealth Place.

Here are Lisa’s go-to strategies for building a fitness routine that lasts:

1. Start with self-reflection: Each person is different, so what works for one won’t necessarily work for another. What are you most likely to enjoy? That will go a long way in helping you stick with it!

Honestly evaluate your likes and dislikes, your goals and what will help you achieve them. Do you need a buddy to add the fun factor and help keep you “honest?” Do you prefer a team activity or one where you can turn on the tunes and zone out?

“If you’re an introvert, don’t sign up for a group class that has a lot of social time, for example. In the end, we continue doing things that we get some benefit from,” Lisa says.

2. Timing is everything: Craft your approach with your day planner in hand, considering the time of day you’ll most likely be successful. Scheduling workout times like your other appointments also underscores the commitment. “It all makes a difference in whether you’ll follow through,” Lisa says.

3. Pace yourself: Ease into your 2020 fitness goals. Enthusiasm can make people hit the weights too hard or register for too much. The painful results discourage them before they can see positive results.

“People say, ‘OK, it’s time for a fresh start,’ but don’t overdo it; our bodies don’t adapt that quickly,” Lisa says. “That kind of approach doesn’t set you up for success. Don’t train like you’re where you want to be six months from now; give yourself time to get there.”

4. Consider supports: If moderation is a challenge, or you’re recovering from an injury, or don’t know where to start, scheduling a few times with a trainer can be an inexpensive solution. And if you need a little extra motivation, you’ll be more accountable too!

5. Try something new: Not sure what works for you? Try something new! With your Saanich Access Pass, sample everything from drop-in pickleball and netball to weights and water aerobics, all in an accessible, welcoming environment. “You have the flexibility to try so much,” Lisa says.

Through it all, celebrate the small successes along the road to your ultimate destination: wellness!

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Access more with your Access Pass

Your Saanich Access Pass lets you choose from 31 different drop-in activities weekly at four recreation centres. With a wide selection of passes available, find something for every budget, including a monthly payment plan for some passes. Learn more at saanich.ca/recreation

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Try something new! With your Saanich Access Pass, sample everything from drop-in pickleball to water aerobics, all in an accessible, welcoming environment.
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Did you know? Your Saanich Access Pass lets you choose from 31 different drop-in activities weekly at four recreation centres!
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