With a new decade quickly approaching, you've probably started thinking about your upcoming goals and resolutions. While many place health and fitness at the top of their list of New Year's resolutions, it's easy to become discouraged and lose sight of your goals without a proper plan or the support of personal training. This year, keep your resolve by committing to the advice below.

How to Follow Through on Exercise Goals in 2020

1. Don't Go It Alone

For many, the desire to undergo a full-body transformation comes with emotions and setbacks that can easily derail plans. The support of a close friend, relative, or personal trainer can help to create accountability and provide emotional support. Whether they're asking how you're doing or joining you in a weekly weigh-in, the encouragement of the fitness community can often help keep a struggling plan on track.

2. Be Realistic

Whether you're trying to lose weight for your health, energy, or self-image, be realistic when setting goals. Create small objectives that are more easily attainable, such as shedding five pounds per month instead of 50 pounds total, and celebrate the victories along the way. Understand that there is a healthy way and an unhealthy way to lose weight. Pushing yourself too hard is not only unsafe, but it can also lead to burnout.

3. Make a Plan

New Year's resolutions often fail due to a lack of planning. This year, commit to your resolution by formulating a plan in advance and sticking to it. Consider meal planning to avoid turning to fast food or comfort foods in moments of weakness. Map out an exercise routine that works with your schedule to ensure you're not overbooked. At the same time, identify potential distractions—like travel plans and events—so you can overcome obstacles as they arise.

4. Forgive Your Setbacks

It's easy to feel discouraged after avoiding your favorite foods and still not seeing the numbers you want on the scale. It's even easier to lose sight of your goals in the presence of guilty pleasures. For many, a single setback is enough to derail weeks of hard work, causing you to avoid exercise, overindulge, or give up on your resolution. Instead, think of your new nutrition regimen as a way of life, and remember you have plenty of time to succeed. Forgive yourself and get back on track.

If you've resolved to get in shape in the new year, contact the professionals at Freedom Fitness in Lake St. Louis, MO. Their team of certified personal trainers offers a variety of fitness classes designed to help you achieve your goals. Get started today by calling (636) 536-4500 for Cottleville, (636) 536-4500 for Lake St. Louis, (314) 304-1617 for All N 1 or visit them online for more information.