A New Year, A New Year's Resolution...to Toss!

It's time to make, and break, those New Year's resolutions.  Every year, we make resolutions that we know will be tough to keep...and then we either break them or forget about them.  Number 1 resolution?  Lose weight.  I've already been contacted by several people who want to lose weight.  I'm going to do something crazy, and tell you to throw that resolution out the window!

A few months ago, I read an article about setting goals for running.  One thing that stuck in my head, is that people who make their goal "weight loss" are dooming themselves to fail.  I think the reason this may hold true is because, when you decide you have to lose 30 lbs and don't see significant progress right away, it's easy to say "Oh, this isn't working.  I quit."  Another thing to consider is  that when you're losing weight the healthy way, you should be adding muscle.  And though muscle does not weigh more than fat (a pound of muscle weighs the same as a pound of fat), a pound of muscle does take up significantly less space than a pound of fat...also, it jiggles less.

Another reason that I'm asking you to throw your "weight loss" goal out, is because giant goals that are far away just seem harder to attain.  Face it, if your goal is to lose 30 lbs, it isn't going to happen fast.  At least it shouldn't, or you've taken an unhealthy approach to losing it and will probably put back 35 and have an even bigger weight loss goal by summer.  If you're goal is to run for 10 minutes straight (yes, I know, running is not for everyone, but man, it will help you shed pounds), you can do that in a month...and you'll probably lose 4-5 lbs whether it's your goal or not. 

So here is my suggestion, instead of making a resolution, resolve to make healthier choices.  Change the little things and the big changes will happen on their own.

This month, I'll be putting together a fit club.  We're going to start slow and make reasonable and attainable goals.  Just by getting started, you'll be reaching your first goal and have something to be proud of.  Who's in?  Oh and there may be prizes!  Whether you're in need of a little help making healthier choices or you need some serious butt kicking, or maybe you just want to support someone else on their journey to fitness, join by emailing FitFriends@runningahealthyfamily.com.  We'll do it together!