I’ve been a long-time gym-goer, but my visits have been known to drop-off in January. Not because I’m lazy, but because the gym is ridiculously crowded at the beginning of January. The gym returns to its regular levels by the end of January. Here are a few more reasons why you should wait until the end of January to start your fitness goals.
Swimsuit Season is Closer
Sometimes you need a better motivation than “get in shape.” On New Year’s Eve, swimsuit season seems light years away. Now, with spring a mere six weeks away, swimsuit season is looking pretty darn close. If you start now, you’ll have a good four months to achieve your fitness goals before you don a swimsuit.
You Can Get Deals
Lots of gyms offer deals in early January, but they’re also high-pressure. Wait until the end of January when they’re trying to meet sales goals. If you can come up with non-gym fitness activitiesto keep you busy for a month, then the end of February is probably the best time of the year to get a deal. You’ll be signing up while everyone else is trying to cancel.
You Can Use the Fitness Equipment
If you go to the gym the first Monday in January, you’ll have to wait in long lines to get access to them. Start now and you’ll be able to get on most of the equipment quickly.
It Doesn’t Feel Like a Resolution
There’s something about calling it a New Year’s Resolution that sets us up to fail. If you wait until February, then it’s just a new fitness goal. A goal doesn’t carry the same mental blocks as a resolution, so you’re more likely to succeed.
It Might Be a Tad Warmer Outside
If you want to exercise outside, some areas start to see a turn in February. Even though the possibility of storms remains high through February, most states are coldest in January.
You Might Actually Be Able to Find a Wii Fit
Wii Fits were pretty scarce this holiday season, but now the rush is over and more stores are likely to have them in stock without a long wait in line. If you already have a Wii, then the Wii Fit can help you get started on a fitness routine. If you’re already fairly fit, then it may not provide you quite as much benefit. Still, $90 for something that doesn’t require you to leave home may be a better deal than $40 a month for a membership to a gym you can actively avoid using.
If It’s Convenient, It Will Become a Habit
Going to the gym in January is inconvenient – it’s crowded, the parking lot is full, it’s raining/snowing/freezing outside. In February, it becomes more convenient and convenience is a great motivator.
If you want to get in shape, start now. Set your fitness goals in baby steps, with a final goal several months away. Once you blow through that first fitness goal, you’ll be motivated to keep going. The key to reaching the goal? Starting in February, or really any month except December or January.