Many people use the start of a new year to set fitness goals for themselves. However, maintaining your commitment to getting on the treadmill or exercise bike regularly isn't always easy. Proactively identifying potential hurdles that could stand in the way of your goals and addressing them head-on can help improve your odds of success. Here's a look at setting realistic goals for your fitness journey.

How to Meet Your Fitness Goals

1. Make a Plan

Defining your goals is essential, but sketching out how you'll achieve them leads to greater success. For example, if your goal is to run a marathon, you aren't going to jump right in and do that without building up your endurance. You can create a month-by-month training plan building up running distances to help you achieve this objective. Writing out your goals and mapping a plan to reach them will help you set realistic expectations.

2. Work Out With a Friend

Exercising with another person is a great way to stay motivated. You'll be more likely to stick to your workout schedule when someone else is waiting for you and holding you accountable. Your partner can serve as a personal cheerleader and make breaking a sweat more fun.

3. Invest in Equipment

Having the right equipment at home can make it easier to establish and stick to a new routine. You may also be more motivated when you don't have to schedule time for driving to and from the gym. Nowadays, it's possible to get gym-quality equipment ranging from treadmills to ellipticals for your home.

Get the home exercise equipment you need to help you meet your fitness goals from Exercise & Leisure Equipment. Based in Cincinnati, this gym equipment store serves clients throughout southeast Ohio and northern Kentucky. Their knowledgeable team is backed by nearly 70 years of experience and can expertly recommend equipment that's best suited to your needs and your living space. Visit their website to view their selection of treadmills, ellipticals, and more. Call (513) 531-7777 to speak to a team member.