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Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to New Year’s resolutions

Jan 1, 2017 | 7:00 AM

January is often the time of year for people to commit to eating better, getting in shape and starting a new routine. However, resolutions are notoriously difficult to keep and many don’t know where to start with their good intentions.

Tammy Fulton, who owns and operates Yoga Sublime Studio in Prince Albert, said making fitness into a habit is essential when it comes to sticking with a New Year’s goal because it’s significantly easier to quit something before it becomes ingrained into your routine.

“Once they get that habit going, then they’re good to go,” Fulton said. “If they don’t establish the habit right from the beginning, those are the ones that are a little less likely to stick with it.”

It usually takes about four to six weeks to make fitness into a long-term habit, Fulton said.

Fulton also warned of burnout as a result of over-zealous ambitions, even in yoga. A mistake she often sees is students putting too much strain on their bodies too quickly, which can lead them to avoid coming back.

“Yoga isn’t a competitive sport. It’s a personal practice and so students are really encouraged to only do what feels right in their bodies,” she said. “One of the things I say always to my new students is ‘yoga shouldn’t hurt.’”

Natalie Ksyniuk has coached at SaskPro Crossfit for two years. She believes the best way to get in shape after the holidays is to start small.

“Don’t set yourself up for failure, so small changes that you can maintain is the best way to go,” she said.

According to Ksyniuk, working out a couple of days a week and finding nutrition plan that works for your schedule is best way to build a habit which eventually turn into a routine.

There are always those who start with good intentions but fail to follow through with their resolutions.

“For the people who just kind of sign up right after the New Year, maybe about half stick around,” Ksyniuk explained. “It kind of depends on the year and the people who sign up.”

with files from Taylor MacPherson

 

shane.oneill@paNOW.com

On Twitter: @stroneill