Want to lose weight by getting fit? Put it in your calendar.
Most New Year’s resolutions fail because they are too lofty and vague. “Exercise more” is a tough instruction to follow. Where would you begin? Scientific studies have found people are more likely to be physically active if they make a realistic and detailed action plan.
Your action plan might look like this: “Monday: walk at the mall 7 p.m. for half an hour, medium intensity.” Wednesday’s plan could be: “Lift weights, at home, 8 a.m., 20 minutes, three repetitions.” And Friday’s plan could be: “Boot camp, at the gym, 5:30 p.m., 45 minutes, full intensity.” On Saturday? Get outside and have fun.
“Baby steps are important,” says Sammie Kennedy, the creator and CEO of Booty Camp Fitness, a growing company dedicated to helping women get active.
“When you make smaller changes over time, it becomes less overwhelming and you are more likely to gain positive momentum from actually achieving your small goals. You feel positive, you see results and you are far more likely to be successful in your larger, long-term goals.”
Boot camps are growing in popularity because they are a fun and social way to lose weight and get fit. Booty Camp Fitness, which is run by women for women, has nearly 100 locations across Canada, including British Columbia, Alberta, Ontario and New Brunswick. Kennedy has observed that the most successful clients in her eight-week boot camps are those who declare their goals, attend class regularly and make small lifestyle changes they can stick with in their daily lives.
