With the summer months fast approaching, it’s generally the time for people to revisit their New Year’s fitness resolutions. One of the biggest reasons why people struggle in meeting their fitness goals is that they have set unrealistic expectations. Many individuals look to fad exercise tools and diets as quick fixes to fitness issues that require real lifestyle changes. Because it’s not an overnight transformation, it is easy to get derailed from your fitness plans. However, there are a few easy steps for finding fitness success:

• Start slowly. Nothing derails a fitness program like an early injury. Find a pace that works for you and build from there.
• Set manageable short and long-term goals. The average person can safely lose one to two pounds of fat per week, so it can take a while to get back into shape. Pick a long-term goal that you want to reach within six months to a year, and then set several short-term benchmarks that will help you track your progress and see improvement. Reevaluate your overall goal at each benchmark.
• Find an exercise partner. I cannot stress this one enough, because even fitness professionals have those days where they struggle to make it to the gym. However, exercising with a friend adds a layer of accountability that will keep you both in line on those tough days. It also adds a layer of fun on those really tough days.
• Mix it up. The best results come from a combination of cardiovascular and resistance training, rather than one or the other.

• Exercise is only part of the equation. A healthy diet is critical to reaching your fitness goals, whether you are looking to build muscle or lose weight. Seek guidance from a professional dietician if managing your meals is a real problem. But don’t cut out the fun food entirely. Give yourself one cheat day or meal every week to eat a few of the foods you love; reward yourself for all of your hard work in the gym.
• Stay off the scale. Give yourself a few weeks between checking your weight. With food and water, your weight can vary 5-10 pounds each day. Prevent these inaccuracies discouraging you by taking measurements less often.
• Don’t be afraid to ask for help. If you have a goal in mind, but are unsure how to reach it, seek the help of a professional or a knowledgeable friend. This way you are aren’t spinning your wheels or working against your goals. A fitness professional should always have your goals in mind, so be willing and unafraid to ask questions to better understand your exercise program.

These tips should go a long way towards helping you reach your fitness goals. Above all, remember to find what works best for you, in terms of exercise and motivation, and have fun doing it. For more information and assistance, contact a LivePerson Fitness Expert LIVE and get in the best shape of your life!