(Image Credit: Chad Klassen / CFJC Today)

By Dylana Kneeshaw

HEALTH GOALS IN 2021

New Year’s resolution or not, fitness experts recommend realistic approach for improving health

Jan 5, 2021 | 5:03 PM

KAMLOOPS — As many gym owners and personal trainers know, even the best of New Year’s fitness intentions can be derailed. Well-meaning gym goers get inspired to improve their health and start out with a routine, however by springtime there is often a drop in attendance.

Personal trainer Bailey Dagneau says it’s a common trend at this time of year, but there are ways to keep work-out goals on track.

Before diving into a diet or exercise program that promises you will “get shredded in 30 days”, or drop 20 pounds in two weeks, Dagneau says you need to be realistic about what will work with you.

“Do you see yourself doing it long term? Because if you don’t and if your diet has an expiry date that’s when the results will go too,” she says. “Look for long term. Try focusing on small maintainable habits, and just build on those.”

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Crash diets and rapid weight loss programs heavily advertised on social media this time of year may look appealing, but Dagneau says sustainable results are unlikely.

“If it is extreme and it requires a complete lifestyle overhaul, you’re probably not going to stick with it for very long.”

Throughout the pandemic, interest has been steady for virtual options. Dagneau’s individualized online programs offer regular check-ins, at-home workout plans and nutrition coaching. She says she often helps clients identify areas where small changes can be made, and habits can be formed.

“It’s setting them up for long term success. They’ll know how to take care of themselves and how to maintain those results as well,” she explains, “It really is an education in their health and their fitness for life.”

In contrast to the stereotype of New Year’s resolutions, sign-ups at local gyms aren’t skyrocketing this week. According to Kent Aitchison, owner and coach at Tournament Capital Strength and Conditioning (TCSC), oftentimes an increase in attendance can simply be people who took time off their routines and enjoyed holiday treats.

“With yesterday being the first day of back to school and stuff like that, usually within the next week or two we start having people trickle in to check things out and see what we have to offer.”

To adhere to current provincial health orders for gyms, TCSC installed floor markers for people to keep two metres apart, masks are worn, hands and equipment are sanitized more frequently and the air ventilation was improved. Their coaches also had to adjust how classes were run to allow for more rest time and prevent prolonged heavy breathing.

Many people find it easier to stay motivated with group classes and still prefer in-person workouts — like the adjusted sessions offered at TCSC. Aitchison says the limited social opportunities during the pandemic have created a heightened appreciation for group workouts.

“If you’re in it with a team, rather than trying to just find something online and do it on your own,” he says. “The accountability and working with someone else I think is the biggest thing to (do) to not just do a couple days in January and fall off the map — another cliche — just keep going throughout the rest of the year.”

Whether it’s at the gym or following a guided program from home, trainers agree one of the best ways to keep at it is to have someone else supporting you along the way.

“I think if people can find a partner or a coach or somebody to be accountable with to make a long term goal to make some serious changes on where their habits are, and where their priorities are.”