Adding just one new fitness move each month can make a significant difference in your ultimate progress throughout the year. Follow these month-to-month tips from Life Fitness and discover effective ways to achieve new fitness goals in 2012.  You can complete your fitness goals in 12 months, if you focus on the positive goals you have already set for yourself. Think in “I will” instead of “I want…” It makes for a serious personal call to action, and strengthens your affirmations. Check out part two of how to achieve your fitness goals in a year.

July: Try Doing “Real” Pull-ups
This type of goal can be extremely motivating and satisfying when met. During the month of July, try and work your way up to completing three or more ‘real’ pull-ups, meaning no assistance or use of machine.

August: Complete a 5K
Run/walks for a cause are extremely popular during the summer months. Whether you run, jog or walk, there’s nothing like completing a race, especially when it’s for a charity.

September: Set a Schedule
Nothing crushes an end goal like inconsistent workout times. Understand whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, pick a workout time accordingly and stick with it. Maintaining a consistent schedule is one more way to make attaining your goals a little easier to do.

October: Find a Workout Partner
While some people prefer solitude, a partner can offer spotting during weight training, support during the last leg of a run and motivation to hit the gym on a lazy day. Enlist the help of a neighbor, family member or friend who is at your fitness level and share the training journey together. Hold one another accountable for the workouts you plan and you’ll be less inclined to skip a session.

November: Engage in More Cross-Training
For most, the weather is cooling off and winter doldrums may start to set in. Cross-training offers a variety of activities and can be an effective way to burn a lot of calories while reducing impact on your joints. Choose a cross-trainer that incorporates upper and lower body movement to really get the heart pumping. Try mixing your cardio and strength workouts together and see what physical improvements you can make by incorporating cross-training this month.

December: Meditate Regularly
This practice decreases stress and will improve your mood. Find a place you are most comfortable and breathe deeply through your nose for 10 minutes, clearing your mind and relaxing your muscles. Use this time to recharge your mind and body when holiday stress sets in.

Did you miss Part One of the series? Click HERE to check it out.

TAGS: Health, Life Fitness, Yvelette Stines