It’s that time of year when we all flock to the gym to carry out our New Year’s Resolution of getting fit. 2019 is going to be the year, right? It’s no secret that getting in shape, or maintaining a fitness routine lands on most of our lists. While the ambition to kick it into gear starts strong with the new year, inevitably our diehard commitment falls by the wayside after January. Here are 5 tips to help you stick with a fitness routine and stay healthy all year.

Plan Out Your Fitness Routine

The first thing to do is plan out your fitness routine. Think about your starting point and how you envision your healthiest self. Are you focusing on weight loss? Toning up? Building strength or improving your endurance? Having a clear idea of what your expectations are will help you create an effective fitness routine. Set realistic expectations that align with your goals and ease into your plan. Rather than saying you’re going to commit to 6 days of 2 hour sessions pumping iron at the gym, write a plan you can realistically manage. It’s smart to consider your time, your schedule and how you’ll fit your workouts in.

Ease Into It

While an all or nothing approach might get your through January, it’s unlikely to sustain you year-round. That’s why it’s important to ease into your fitness routine. Once you’ve mapped out your plan, begin by taking baby steps. Is your ultimate goal to run a marathon? Start with 20 minutes jogs 3 times a week. When in doubt, start small. Remember that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. So, lace up your workout shoes and take that first step. From there, you’ll gain traction and your fitness routine becomes a healthy habit.

Choose Moderation Instead of Extreme Changes

Rather than resorting to extreme diets or workout regimens, start making little changes that add up big time. Opt for salad instead of fries, take the stairs instead of the elevator. Bottom line: make subtle changes where you can to build up the mindset that you’re actively making healthy choices. These shifts in your day-to-day will empower you to adhere to your fitness routine.

Reward Yourself

An important part of maintaining a balanced fitness routine is to reward yourself for your accomplishments. Did you reach a milestone or have a fitness breakthrough? Yay! Reward yourself with a new set of workout gear or perhaps a healthy kitchen appliance like the Instant Pot. Or, incorporate delicious meals with fun recipes from my Wandering Palate cookbook. There’s no shortage of health gadgets and beauty products on the market to keep you on track with your fitness routine. Don’t forget to acknowledge your milestones and reward yourself accordingly, that way you avoid treating yourself to donuts or fast food that might derail you from your routine.

Make it Fun

Here’s the truth: these days there are so many more ways to workout than just lifting weights or running. If you absolutely dread one type of workout, avoid it in favor of something that brings you joy like Zumba or yoga. Maintaining a fitness routine requires engaging in activities that you actually look forward to, rather than dread. Even better? Find a workout partner or join a group fitness that energizes you, brings you happiness and gives you something to look forward to.

There you have it! You’re on your way to your healthiest self with a rockin’ fitness routine. Remember, the key to maintaining anything longterm is balance. So, take it one step at a time and get your heart pumping because big changes are on the horizon for you this year!