Making a Lifetime Commitment to Movement
by Cyril H. Whitter III
Many people set out to make New Year’s resolutions around this time, but, according to Forbes, only about eight percent of people actually achieve their goals. It’s safe to say that self-improvement is a shared hobby among most of us; it is, also, for most of us, a far-off dream that never comes to life.
Why?
Most people set bars that tend to be higher than they realistically can reach. Just like we teach our children, we have to crawl before we can walk and if it’s been a while, you’ll need to take the time and put in the work to get your sea legs back – not to mention mentally. Keeping it simple, by making a lifetime commitment to movement, is key to fitness success that will keep you feeling healthy, clear-minded and build the stepping stones to go further. We’ve designed three tips to help you get started, get moving, stay on track, and be a part of the 8 percent of people who do achieve their goals!
Take Small Steps
Make small, but meaningful, adjustments you will commit to. This can include parking further away from work, cutting out sugary drinks 4 out of 5 days a week, or taking the stairs instead of an elevator.
Commit to 45 minutes a day:
Walk Bermuda’s Beautiful Railway Trails
Pedal Biking
Swimming
Jogging / Running
Group Fitness Classes
Cardio Kickboxing
Find Fun Activities
Pick an activity you’ll enjoy committing to. Whether it be joining a gym, picking up a new sport, or taking walks through nature trails, make sure it is an activity you will enjoy getting up and going to.
Create a Buddy System
Find a friend (or make one along the way) you can share your goals with who can keep you accountable. Tell them your goals and how you plan to achieve them! Going to run for 30 minutes three times a week? Tell your friend and have them check up on you.
Getting into a new healthier lifestyle and implementing a new fitness routine does not have to feel like a life-draining, end-of-the-world experience. It simply starts with taking that first step towards your goals. Start by making that commitment to daily movement.
Cyril H. Whitter III is the President and Co-Owner of Aries Sports Center (www.ariessports.com). He is a Second Degree JiuJitsu Black Belt and Instructor from JCB School of Survival Arts.
This article was originally published in the 2019 edition of the rg Health & Wellness supplement.
