I would firstly like to wish you all a very Happy and Healthy 2021 from us all at NHPT and hope you all had a very good, if not a little different, Christmas.

So… January is here, New Year’s Resolutions made and every 2nd advert you see is either for a summer holiday or a deal on gym membership. Did you know though, of all the people who start a new fitness regime of some sort, 60% will have given up within the first 6 weeks. Mainly this is because it’s the hardest time period, especially at this time of year. Mornings and evenings are dark, wet and not exactly enticing to get out there. So what can you do to maximise your chances of establishing a good exercise habit that will continue beyond Valentines Day? In my opinion the key it to find something that works for YOU, not what your work colleague or partner is doing, not what the latest fitness fad and definitely not something you dread doing and don’t enjoy. This January what are your options?

1. JOIN A GYM: The biggest thing about gyms now is there is a plethora of choice. In this case try lots, ask for free trials, try their classes, go at the time of day you are most likely to go. It’s all very well the gym being open 24/7 but are you paying extra to go within “normal” times?

2. GET A PT: Personal training is exactly that, personal. It is a way of training which is developed to suit you. Whether in a gym or at home a personal trainer, well a good one a least, should listen to your needs and tailor everything to you to ensure you look forward to your next session. From my 17 years as a PT I have seen many PTs who I would not want to train me. Again ask for a trial and testimonials. Any good PT should jump at the chance to provide these.

3. ONLINE CLASSES: With everybody being more confident with using programmes such as Zoom, the online class revolution has well and truly started. Some will not continue and others, like the NHPT Class Pass, are here to stay. Offering a wide range of classes, all from the comfort of your own home these classes allow you to be part of a “family” without feeling uncomfortable in a busy gym.

4. GET OUT AND DO IT YOURSELF: There is absolutely nothing wrong with getting out and training yourself providing you do it safely. The biggest issue is motivation though. Will you get a knock on the door from a PT or a reminder on your phone for a class or will you slump back under the covers and press snooze once more?

If you would like any further information on the NHPT Class Pass, or at home Personal Training please do not hesitate to contact me on 07590 676205 or Neil@nhpt.org.uk and again I wish you a very healthy and happy 2021.