Only 33% of Filipinos achieved their fitness goals in 2021. Here are tricks to successfully reach your goals

January is the month of planning and goal setting. As more Filipinos prioritize their health & wellness, the top yearly resolutions usually revolve around improving fitness habits.

In a recent survey by Rebel with over 250 Filipino respondents, 67% of participants shared that they failed to achieve the fitness goals they set in 2021. In addition to the typical blockers such as lack of motivation, conflict of schedule, high costs and no access to proper fitness guidance, setting unachievable goals may also greatly hinder the path to a successful fitness journey.

But it's still not too late, here’s a quick guide to help you set better goals in 2022:

Define your goal

Focus on one goal at a time and channel all your energy into it before moving on to the next. Certified fitness coach Cam Lagmay adds that “having multiple goals at once can get overwhelming and may add more pressure in the wellness  journey.”

You can start with a simple goal such as running 5 kilometers straight after a month of training, attending two fitness classes per week, or finishing a two-week program to enhance your booty!

An easy way to set a realistic goal is to follow the M.A.T format: 

• Measurable: It helps to evaluate your progress. This can be by journaling your weight, your body-fat percentage, how often you worked out this week, your calorie intake, how many kilometers you ran, or even by taking transformation photos and videos. It’s all about finding a way to record your journey so that you can keep track of your progress.
• Achievable: Your goals need to be realistic. They need to take into account your current fitness level and limitations. Break one big goal into smaller steps, take these steps one at a time, and ultimately, you’ll get to that one big goal. Let’s keep in mind that progress is more sustainable than perfection!
• Timed: Goals are dreams with a deadline. Set a realistic time frame to follow. Working towards a finish line helps to keep you on track and serves as a great motivator. 

Get a workout buddy or a coach! 

Accountability is a vital part of fitness. Having people around to motivate and encourage you to work towards your goals will impact your performance positively. Coach Cam shares that similar to normal life goals, “having your own support group cheering you on will make a big difference.” Working out with a friend or a loved one not only makes exercises more fun; it also increases your chances of sticking to a plan. This can also ignite a friendly competition which can be a motivating factor for some.

If you’re searching for more professional guidance, a personal coach is a great option. In addition to accountability, a trainer can help you learn more about health, fitness, and what works specifically for your body. Personal training is also a great way to get out of your comfort zone and explore various exercises. With individualized programs made specifically for you and your goals, you are much more likely to achieve them.