Small Space Fitness: Cat Corchado
2024 is here and many people set unrealistic fitness goals to improve their fitness.
Did you know that 60-80 percent of these resolutions fail by mid-February?
The Problem With New Year’s Resolutions:
New Year’s resolutions often fail because they are based on unrealistic expectations. Many people dive into intense fitness regimens without considering the long-term commitment required.
 Many people set huge goals without considering their current fitness level or the time/effort needed to achieve those goals. This leads to burnout, frustration, and giving up especially when the progress isn’t as quick or significant as expected.
7 Steps To Set Realistic Fitness Goals for 2024:
“When setting fitness goals, it is important to be realistic and specific.”
1. Configure A Lifestyle Change Mindset:
Approach your goal(s) as lifestyle changes. Start with one change before starting another one. By focusing on small, achievable goals, you can give it your full attention, increase the likelihood of success, and build a solid foundation for long-term success
2. Create A Plan:
Plan out your new lifestyle change (what, when, where and how). This can include creating a schedule for exercise, meal planning, and/or setting aside time for self-care. Having a plan will help you stay organized and focused.
3. Set Realistic And Specific Goals:
When setting fitness goals, it is important to be realistic and specific. Instead of saying “I want to get fit,” you can say “I want to exercise for 30 minutes, 1-2x a week.”. Setting specific goals allows you to track your progress and stay motivated along the way.
4. Start Small:
Instead of trying to change everything at once, start with small changes. This will make it easier to stick to your new lifestyle. For example, if you want to eat healthier, start by adding more fruits and vegetables to your meals, incorporating a daily walk or swapping sugary drinks for water.
“Be patient and kind to yourself.”
5. Find Exercises You Enjoy:
One of the keys to long-term success is finding exercises that you enjoy. This is crucial when starting a new fitness regimen. If you don’t enjoy it, it becomes a chore.
6. Seek Professional Guidance:
Consulting a fitness trainer will provide valuable guidance and support. Trainers help you create a personalized plan, teach proper form, and keep you accountable. Having a support system keeps you motivated and on track with a lesser chance of skipping workouts.
7. Celebrate Small Victories This New Year:
As you make progress celebrate! These celebrations will keep you motivated and reinforce the positive changes you’re making.
Recognize and appreciate the effort you put in, whether it’s completing a challenging workout, reaching a milestone, or sticking to your new habits.
Instead of focusing on what you’re giving up, focus on the positive aspects of your new lifestyle. Be patient and kind to yourself: Lifestyle changes take time. It’s important to be patient and kind with yourself and not get discouraged if you have setbacks.
Remember lifestyle changes are a journey, and it’s important to approach them with patience, determination, and a positive mindset. Here’s to you and your realistic fitness goals for 2024 – good luck on your new lifestyle change!
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About the Author:
Cat is a proud US Air Force veteran who has made it her mission to help women veterans transition from the military. She is a leader and speaker within the active duty and veteran community and her advocacy has helped her develop the Sisters-in-Service podcast- a platform for anyone affiliated with the military.
Cat is also the founder of the Small Space Pilates community. Cat feels privileged to work with midlife women to help them increase body awareness, mobility, stability and strength in a safe and fun environment. With over 39 ears in the fitness arena, her specialties include Personal Training, Pilates, Activated Isolated Stretching (AIS) and most recently her certification with CETI to work with cancer. Follow Cat’s Sisters In Service on Instagram for more information.
