As the calendar flips to a brand new year, many of us are filled with a renewed sense of motivation and determination to make positive changes in our lives. One popular resolution that often tops the list is improving our health and fitness. January presents the perfect opportunity to kickstart a new fitness routine and set the tone for a healthier year ahead.
We reached out to Christie McFarland, The Training Director at Paragon Health and Fitness in Rocky River, Ohio to see how their approach to fitness can get you working in the right direction. Paragon Health and Fitness provides personal training in a small group setting. Certified coaches will help you build the strength to say yes to any challenge.
“We are not an average gym and offer a different approach. We don’t encourage fad/extreme dieting or weight loss programs. Instead, we focus on small sustainable habits that you can easily change and focus on creating a healthy lifestyle. It’s a very realistic approach that just works better for people.” Says McFarland.
Paragon Health and Fitness is unique in that they offer private personal training memberships and semi-private membership with a class ratio of 4:1.The semi-private classes are great because they offer a community feel with a structured format for consistency.
In addition to training, they also offer a nutrition program that runs 12 weeks, 3-4 times a year. This group program is not a diet and includes one-on-one coaching. You will learn ways to eat better and improve your relationship with food.
For more information about Paragon Health and Fitness check out their website at Paragoncle.com or on Instagram @paragon_cle.
Here are some other effective strategies and tips to help you start January with a bang and stay committed to your fitness goals.
Setting Realistic Goals:
Be clear about what you want to achieve, whether it's weight loss, building strength, or improving overall fitness. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day, and sustainable progress takes time. Set small, achievable milestones that will keep you motivated along the way.
Create a Schedule:
To ensure consistency, create a fitness schedule that works for you. Treating these appointments with yourself as non-negotiable will help you prioritize your fitness goals.
Find Activities You Enjoy:
Fitness doesn't have to be a chore. Discover activities that you genuinely enjoy, as this will make it easier to stay motivated.
Get an Accountability Buddy:
Having someone to keep you accountable can significantly increase your chances of sticking to your fitness routine. Find a workout buddy or join a fitness community where you can share your progress, challenges, and victories. Exercising with others not only adds a social element but also provides support and encouragement when the going gets tough.
Mix Up Your Routine:
To keep things interesting and avoid boredom, don't be afraid to mix up your fitness routine. Incorporate a variety of exercises, such as cardio, strength training, and flexibility workouts.
Prioritize Recovery:
Remember that rest and recovery are just as important as physical activity. Include rest days in your schedule to allow your body to recharge and repair.
Track Your Progress:
Monitoring your progress is essential for staying motivated and seeing how far you've come. Keep a fitness journal or use tracking apps to record your workouts, measure your performance, and note any improvements.
Embarking on a fitness journey in January sets a positive tone for the rest of the year. By setting realistic goals, creating a schedule, finding activities you enjoy, and seeking accountability, you can establish a strong foundation for a healthier and fitter you. Remember that consistency and perseverance are key, and don't be too hard on yourself if you stumble along the way. With dedication and a positive mindset, you can make January the starting point of a lifelong commitment to your health and fitness.
“We are not an average gym and offer a different approach."
"We focus on small sustainable habits."
