Fitness Challenges to Try This Year (And How to Stay Committed)

Are you looking for an exciting way to boost your fitness routine this year? Fitness challenges can be a great way to stay motivated, push your limits, and achieve new goals. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned athlete, there’s a challenge for everyone. The key is to find one that excites you and to stay committed to completing it. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best fitness challenges to try this year and provide actionable tips to help you stick with them.

Top Fitness Challenges to Try

1. 30-Day Bodyweight Challenge

If you don’t have access to a gym or equipment, a bodyweight challenge is a fantastic way to build strength and endurance. Each day, you increase the number of repetitions for exercises like push-ups, squats, lunges, and planks. By the end of the 30 days, you’ll see a significant improvement in your strength and endurance.

How to Stay Committed:

• Follow a structured plan with daily targets.
• Keep track of your progress in a journal or fitness app.
• Find an accountability partner or to do partner challenges with you to keep you motivated.

2. 10,000 Steps a Day Challenge

Walking is one of the easiest ways to improve your overall health. The 10,000 steps challenge encourages you to walk at least 10,000 steps daily, which helps boost cardiovascular health and burn calories.

How to Stay Committed:

• Use a pedometer or fitness tracker to monitor your steps.
• Incorporate walking into your daily routine, such as taking the stairs or walking during phone calls.
• Set reminders to move every hour.

3. Plank Challenge

The plank challenge is perfect for building core strength and improving posture. Start with a 20-second plank and gradually increase the duration each day until you can hold it for several minutes.

How to Stay Committed:

• Perform planks at the same time each day to build consistency.
• Mix up variations (side planks, forearm planks) to keep it interesting.
• Set a goal and visualize the benefits, such as a stronger core and better stability.

4. Couch to 5K Running Challenge

If you’re new to running, the Couch to 5K challenge is an excellent way to build endurance. This program gradually increases your running time over several weeks until you can complete a 5K run.

How to Stay Committed:

• Follow a structured training program with scheduled runs.
• Invest in good running shoes to prevent injuries.
• Reward yourself after reaching milestones, such as completing your first 5K.

5. Yoga Every Day Challenge

Yoga helps improve flexibility, balance, and mental well-being. A yoga challenge encourages you to practice daily, whether it’s for five minutes or an hour.

How to Stay Committed:

• Use online yoga classes or apps to guide your practice.
• Create a relaxing space for yoga at home.
• Track your progress by noting improvements in flexibility and stress levels.

6. 75 Hard Challenge

The 75 Hard Challenge is a mental and physical transformation program that includes two 45-minute workouts per day, drinking a gallon of water daily, reading 10 pages of a non-fiction book, and following a strict diet.

How to Stay Committed:

• Plan your workouts and meals in advance.
• Join an online community for motivation.
• Focus on the mental discipline aspect as much as the physical.

7. 30-Day HIIT Challenge

High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) is one of the most effective ways to burn fat and improve endurance. A 30-day HIIT challenge involves short, intense workouts that get your heart rate up quickly.

How to Stay Committed:

• Follow an online workout plan or app.
• Set a consistent time for workouts.
• Mix up the exercises to prevent boredom.

8. Strength Training Challenge

Strength training improves muscle tone and metabolism. A challenge could involve increasing weights, performing daily strength workouts, or mastering a specific lift like the deadlift or bench press.

How to Stay Committed:

• Set realistic strength goals and track progress.
• Follow a structured program tailored to your fitness level.
• Work out with a friend for extra motivation.

Tips to Stay Committed to Your Fitness Challenge

Starting a challenge is exciting, but sticking with it can be tough. Here are some proven strategies to stay committed:

1. Set Clear Goals

Define what you want to achieve with your fitness challenge. Having a clear objective will help you stay focused and measure progress.

2. Find an Accountability Partner

Having a workout buddy or joining an online community can keep you accountable and motivated.

3. Track Your Progress

Use a fitness tracker, journal, or app to log your workouts and monitor your improvements.

4. Stay Flexible

If you miss a day, don’t quit. Adjust your schedule and keep going rather than getting discouraged.

5. Reward Yourself

Celebrate small milestones with non-food rewards, such as new workout gear or a spa day.

6. Make It Fun

Choose a challenge that excites you and aligns with your interests. If you enjoy it, you’re more likely to stick with it.

7. Visualize Success

Imagine how great you’ll feel after completing the fitness challenges. Visualization can boost motivation and drive.

Conclusion

Fitness challenges are an excellent way to stay motivated, set new goals, and achieve better health. Whether you choose a bodyweight challenge, a running goal, or a HIIT program, the key is consistency and determination. With the right mindset and commitment strategies, you can complete any challenge you set your mind to. So, pick a challenge, stay dedicated, and make this year your fittest one yet!