You have fitness goals. They might be short-term, like losing 2 pounds this month, or longer-term, like running your first marathon next year. Whatever the case may be, if you don’t hold yourself accountable, it’s unlikely you’ll achieve them.
Sure, being accountable can be hard. You already lead a busy life, so how on earth can you stay on track and consistently achieve incredible fitness results? That’s exactly the question we’re here to answer. Because being accountable isn’t impossible. You just need to get a little creative and adopt some practical strategies that will help you take ownership of your health journey.
Below are four actionable accountability tips that will help you stay focused and move quickly towards your fitness goals.
Using technology as an accountability tool
AI is everywhere and while it can’t do your strength training or HIIT routine for you, it can help in other ways. For example, AI-powered technology can provide powerful, personalized insights into everything from your food intake to your workout choices. And nothing motivates you to keep going like seeing the results of your efforts.
To understand your unique nutritional needs and progress, Macro FactorsThe smart app adapts calorie and macro recommendations to your unique metabolism. Instead of being treated like “other” athletes in your age group, you receive specific, accurate calorie and nutrient goals and weekly macro plan updates based on your individual needs. MacroFactor is an evidence-based coaching tool to help you set and achieve all those mini to maxi nutrition goals you’ve been missing out on.
If you are looking for a similar app to store and promote your training results, download it AptivThe affordable guided workout app uses AI to shape workout suggestions as the week progresses. Aaptiv is especially appealing to those looking for new ways to challenge their personal bests. With thousands of workouts to choose from, you’ll never get bored, meaning you’ll be less likely to avoid exercise and more likely to stay accountable and achieve your fitness goals.
Assign accountability buddies
In one Studies cited by FuturityGym membership adherence increased by 35% among people who worked out with a friend. Why? Nothing makes you more accountable to your workout than knowing you’ll let someone down if you don’t show up. Even if you’ve always worked out alone, these numbers are hard to ignore, especially if you tend to miss training and conditioning sessions.
But that doesn’t mean you have to rely on one person for your entire fitness experience. You can have as many accountability buddies as you need. For example, you might go on long bike rides on the weekends and hit the weight room two nights a week. You could join a cycling group on Saturdays and meet with a workout buddy for strength training on Mondays and Wednesdays. That’ll build a lot of accountability into your week, as well as provide some social opportunities.
The idea is to hold yourself accountable, so be upfront with your training buddy and tell them you’re OK with them pushing you when you try to cancel a scheduled meeting. Ask them if they’d like you to do the same so the accountability flows both ways.
Invest in the right training equipment
If your training equipment is outdated or uncomfortable, you won’t enjoy exercising. And if you don’t enjoy exercising, you’ll have less motivation to do it. That’s why the right equipment is important. (Side note: this is an especially important responsibility tip if you plan on exercising outdoors in harsh weather conditions.)
From clothing and accessories to shoes, make sure you set aside funds to invest in items that will enhance and improve your performance. There is no shortage of training options on the market, so it won’t be hard to find something that will keep you comfortable and protect you from injuries.
Take shoes, for example. The right type of shoes does more than keep your feet dry. They reduce the chances of foot ailments like plantar fasciitis, heel spurs, and even ankle sprains. If you’re showing up to your training in the wrong shoes, ditch them and replace them with modern, sport-specific shoes from top brands like Nike, Hoka, Saucony, New Balance, and Ryka. Then, systematically update the rest of your clothes.
Post like an influencer
Social influencers are on the rise, and fitness is one of the most influential areas on social media. Sprout Social Survey Fitness proves to be a category with strong influence, especially among Gen Z and Millennial consumers.
You may not be an influencer on Instagram or TikTok, but think about the images you already post. Do you often upload photos or videos of yourself before, during, and after a workout? Do you love talking about your favorite exercises? If so, adopt that habit. Think of yourself as an influencer and update your page regularly.
How does positioning yourself as an aspiring influencer help you feel more accountable to your fitness routine? First, you’ll have a reason to work out. With followers interested in your progress, it’ll be hard to stop. Second, you’ll have the opportunity to mentor others. And third, you might even become a brand ambassador in the future. Who knows? Maybe you’ll even reap a little reward for breaking a sweat.
Becoming your best self takes time, dedication, and planning to keep your dreams alive. Learning and practicing more ways to be accountable will help you finish the year stronger and healthier.
M&F and its editorial staff were not involved in the creation of this content.