Happy New Year! 🎆

A new year means new self-improvement aspirations, whether it is getting fit or learning a new skill. So, it comes as no surprise that the #1 New Year's resolution is eating healthy and exercising, which is why the gym always feels more crowded this time of year. However, according to business insider, 80% of resolutions fail by the second week of February. It may seem that the odds are stacked against you.

Here are 4 tips to ensure those resolutions are kept.

Start now.

If you choose a specific start date to start getting fit and changing your diet, those goals are put on pedestals, which makes those goals appear more difficult to accomplish than in reality. Instead, get the ball rolling right away. That way, it is easier for it to become a part of your daily schedule.  Slowly, but surely it will become a habit.

Keep your resolutions specific.

Some resolutions are simply too vague, like eating healthy or losing weight. To keep you on track, set a specific goal for your resolution. For example, if your New Year's resolution is to run more often, then sign up for a 5K or marathon now. If your New Year's resolution is to lose weight, then make the goal of losing 10 pounds by June 1st. Having specific goals allows you to map out a plan of attack in your schedule.  It will be unlikely to be caught off guard by other events or occurrences in life and allows for better preparation to change or adjust appropriately.

Document your progress.

Keep a fitness journal to track your best mile time, heaviest lifting weight or weight loss progression. A fitness journal helps create and maintain excitement for your progress. You will look forward to your next workout to see how stronger or faster you are getting. It will also allow you to adjust your workouts to see what works best for you.

Don't get discouraged.

Everyone goes through ups and downs in their resolutions. Setbacks are going to happen from time to time. Feeling weak and fatigued is a part of getting in shape. Continue to get plenty of rest, eat well, drink lots of water and, most importantly, stay positive!

Protect Your Muscles

Protect your muscles with amino acids to prevent fatigue, repair any muscle damage and reduce any next-day soreness. Amino acids are 3x faster than protein to keep your muscles healthy quicker without the extra calories. Amino VITAL Action contains amino acids + electrolytes to keep you hydrated during your run while Rapid Recovery contains amino acids + complex carbs to help your muscles recover faster.

#stayVITAL