4 Reasons Fitness Resolutions Fall Flat
At Goldsmith Podiatry, we know a problem many of our Manhattan patients face at this time of the year is the demise of their New Year’s resolutions to get in shape. It’s a common occurrence—people know the benefits of regular exercise and are determined to make it part of their life. But often, they fail.
Below are four reasons that fitness plans typically fall apart and how to avoid them.
It hurts!
Although you can expect some muscle soreness at the startup of a new exercise program, ongoing pain is not normal. Pain in your feet or ankles—whether it be something simple like a blister or shin splints or related to more severe conditions like plantar fasciitis or a bunion—will quickly bring your plan to a halt. The solution is to consult our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith and Dr. Rosanna Troia, if you have a chronic podiatric problem to learn how to work out safely. Contact our Upper West Side NYC office by calling (212) 877-1002 promptly if new pain develops in your feet or ankles.
The program you chose is too ambitious for your current fitness level.
Picking an exercise routine that presumes you are already at an advanced level of fitness will reduce your chances of succeeding and result in an injury. The pandemic shut down interrupted many patients’ fitness regimens, and resulted in a more sedentary lifestyle. If you’re one of those people, choose a workout that starts slowly and gradually builds up to the greater intensity and longer sessions.
Your shoes don’t work.
You’ve done walking programs in the past so why do your legs and feet feel so achy and sluggish? It may be your footwear is past its prime. Your shoes may still look good on the outside but internally the arch support or insole may be worn down. Replace fitness shoes every 300-500 miles (or sooner if you see visible signs of wear). If you’re starting a new sport, it’s best to get athletic shoes specifically designed for the activity you’ve chosen. Get professionally fitted when purchasing new shoes because foot size can change over time.
You need more motivation.
Initially, just the thought of losing a few pounds and feeling more energetic is enough to get you going. As time goes on, however, you may need more to keep up your enthusiasm. Visual reminders of your goals and your successes can help. Mark your calendar every day you successfully meet your exercise goal. Post a photo of you at the start of your new routine and update monthly. Set small goals and reward yourself when you achieve them.
For more information on exercise and your feet, contact us.