It’s time to say goodbye to paying for a gym membership you barely use. Photo: Belgravia Leisure Group.
If you’re banking on the “new year, new me” mentality to get fit this January, you’re not alone.
But when it comes to adopting new health habits, the real challenge isn’t starting a fitness routine – it’s finding a way to keep showing up once the initial momentum wears off.
We’ve all been there – the first few weeks after an enthusiastic sign-up feel manageable, enjoyable, even. Then life happens, routines slip and motivation fades, leaving you wondering why consistency is such a struggle.
This January, local trainers are keen to see Canberrans leave the frustration cycle behind.
Stromlo Leisure Centre health club manager Sam Schmidt says setting achievable goals is the first step to success.
“My best advice for newcomers would be to start small and be specific,” he says.
“It can be tempting to dive right into an ultra-strict routine, but that isn’t sustainable for most people. Instead, try committing to half an hour a few times a week and build momentum from there.”
If you aren’t sure where to start, check in at your gym of choice to see whether they offer a beginner’s package that introduces a range of high and low-intensity activities.
Stromlo Leisure Centre is part of Belgravia Leisure Group, alongside Gungahlin Leisure Centre, Tuggeranong’s Lakeside Leisure Centre, Dickson Pool and Canberra Olympic Pool in the city.
Every new Belgravia member gets free access to a 30-day BEGIN program.
“This includes three 45-minute sessions with a fully qualified personal trainer, staggered across your first month,” Sam says.
“They’ll show you how to use all our equipment, explore your current health and fitness level and set up a personalised exercise plan based on your interests and goals.”
Struggling with accountability? Routine is your strongest supporter.
Schedule workouts in your calendar, just like you would a doctor’s appointment and keep the times consistent.
Asking a friend to be your workout partner can also be a huge help. It’s a lot harder to talk yourself out of going when there’s someone waiting for you to show up.
Going to the gym isn’t just about cardio. If you really want to elevate your fitness game, consider strength training as well. Photo: Belgravia Leisure Group.
Try tracking your progress in a journal or fitness app for extra motivation on tough days.
You’ll never outrun an overall lack of nutrition, so pair your exercise routine with whole foods, fruits, lean proteins and plenty of water. Celebrating broader victories like better sleep, tougher joints and improved mood can help keep your mind off the scale.
“Rest days are just as important as working out,” Gungahlin Leisure Centre’s health club manager Michael O’Brien says.
“Your muscles need time to recover, especially after a big session. Overexercising increases your risk of injury, which can quickly send you backwards.
“This doesn’t mean you have to lie around on the couch all day; you can still go for a gentle walk or do some stretches at home.”
There are plenty of specialised gyms out there that focus on a single discipline, but it’s important to try something different every so often. Focus on activities you actually enjoy. Aim for a mix of aerobic, strength and functional fitness to avoid that dreaded plateau.
“Don’t force yourself to run on a treadmill if you hate it,” Michael says.
“If you like swimming, then swim. If music gets you motivated, jump into a group dance class. Try to remember that persistence is always better than perfection.”
Speaking of classes – consider signing up for some. If you’re after a quick, full-body workout, Michael recommends Connect 30.
“Connect 30 is a high-intensity interval training class that runs for half an hour. It combines aerobic, strength and endurance techniques in a fun group environment,” he says.
“We’re also introducing a new 10-week ‘learn to lift’ strength training program at Gungahlin, which will be open to members and non-members,” he says.
“For lower impact that still gets the heart pumping, check out box fit, zumba, aqua aerobics, or a Les Mills BodyBalance class.”
Finally, don’t forget to reward your hard work. New workout gear, a massage, or those concert tickets you’ve been eyeing off are all great ways to celebrate. Good luck!
Find out more at Belgravia Leisure.
