New Year’s resolutions – some people love them, some people hate them, but regardless of your feelings, they are always a popular topic come January. Whether you want to call them resolutions, intentions, goals, or anything else, here are some ideas to kick-start 2024 with energy and motivation.
- Rest
This might not be at the top of your “new year, new me” list, but getting adequate rest is so important to your body, energy level, and overall health. If you already work out regularly, try to include 1-3 rest days into your week. If you’re new to working out, maybe aim for every other day so your body adjusts at a realistic pace to increase movement. Sleep is important, too – it’s ok to skip that morning workout if you had a late night! Your body might benefit more from sleep than pushing it when you’re low on fuel.
- Hydrate
Proper hydration is important whether you’re working out or not. The general guideline for water intake is half your weight in ounces, though if you’re active and sweating, you should add ~12 ounces for every 30 minutes of activity. Fill up that brand-new Stanley cup and get sipping.
- Try different foods or cuisines
While there is always a lot of diet talk around the new year, I want to encourage you instead to focus on incorporating new-to-you foods into your meals. Maybe there’s an ingredient you always see but don’t know what to do with. Maybe a new restaurant opened in your neighborhood. Whatever it is, mixing up your go-to meals with new options makes fueling your body enjoyable and exciting. (Also, did you know that the MINT newsletter occasionally features new recipes? Check it out and get cooking!)
- Find new ways to move your body
Will this be the year that you join a recreational sports league? Learn to swim or ride a bike? Train for a race? MINT has added many new classes to the schedule – try them and let us know what you think. There are endless ways to move your body, so find what brings you joy!
With any of these ideas, take the pressure off – for many, the thought of starting a whole new routine all at once is daunting and leads to failure. If you incorporate any new habit or change even once throughout the week, it’s better than not at all. And most importantly, do what feels right for your body and your routine. Movement should be fun and positive, not punitive.
The start of the year is always a busy time at MINT. While walk-ins are accommodated when space is available, we strongly recommend booking ahead for classes and gym time. We look forward to seeing you in the gym!