Note from Crystal: I originally did this Healthier You Challenge a few years ago, but you can totally still use this any time you’d like if you’re looking for some easy ways to get back on track with your health! You can see all the posts here. Or if you want a quick jumpstart, be sure to check out my 15 Days to a Healthier You course!
As I’ve been pondering what goals I want to have for this year, one area I really want to focus on is my health. It’s easy to let our health take a back burner to everything else on our to-do list. But as I share in my book, Say Goodbye to Survival Mode, I’ve experienced what happens when you put your health last… and it’s not pretty!
With this in mind, I’m committed to making my health even more of a priority this year. And I’d love to have you join me for the 12 Months to a Healthier You Challenge.
We’ll be focusing on one challenge area each month — all with the goal of being in a healthier place as a person by the end of next year. My hope is that as we work on instilling one new healthy habits each month, they won’t just be month-long challenges, but lifelong changes.
12 Months to a Healthier You Focus Areas
Here are the focus areas I’ve planned out for each month this year:
January: Exercise Regularly
February: Eat More Fresh Fruits & Veggies
March: Drink More Water
April: Cut Back on Sugar
May: Get More Rest
June: Create a Morning Routine
July: Read More
August: Go to Bed Earlier
September: Declutter Your Home
October: Cut Back on Caffeine
November: Keep a Gratitude Journal
December: Simplify & Say No
How This Challenge Will Work:
At the beginning of the month, I’ll introduce the focus area and encourage you to set a small goal for that specific area and I’ll share my goals.
Then, every Friday, I’ll have a check-in post where I’ll encourage you to share your progress & struggles and I’ll share mine, as well. If you want to blog about your progress, I’ll include a link-up at the end of the post so you can share your blog posts on this challenge.
In addition to the Friday check-ins, I’ll also probably share a few posts and guest posts on the monthly topics each month, along with sharing about related books, resources, or websites that I’ve found helpful.
Are you on social media? You can also share your progress on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, or Twitter by using hashtag #12MonthstoaHealthierYou.
Will you be joining me for this 12 Months to a Healthier You Challenge? If so, leave a comment letting us know you’re planning to join and what your exercise goals are for January. Remember to keep them simple and doable!
Need a small jumpstart?
If this all seems a bit overwhelming and you need some accountability to take baby steps in getting your health back on track, be sure to sign up for my 15 Days to a Healthier You course!
This 15-day course is designed to help you:
- Prioritize your health so you can feel better and get more done.
- Boost your energy, feel less exhausted, and take better care of your body and your mind.
- Set realistic goals for self-care that you can actually follow through with.
Go here to sign up!
I’m so excited about the monthly challenges. I feel like I would stick to it a lot more not changing everything at once.
I’m in all the way! I will workout 5x a week alternating cardio and body strength routines.
Starting at the YMCA on Monday when my son goes back to school going to try and get at least 3-4 day in addition to my morning job (riding Thoroughbred race horses) today I finished up the candy in the house so it won’t be taunting me tomorrow! Lol I want to lose 7-10 pounds by summer. And just be a healthy me again.
I’m in. I will work out at least 4x/week (goal of 5 to 6).
I’m in!!! This months goals will be easy to accomplish because I’ve been working out consistently 6 days a week with my Leslie Sansone workout DVD. Just added a Pilates & yoga session to my daily routine as well! This weight has GOT TO GO!!! 🙂 I’ll be sharing on instagram! @s0ulflower
Exercise at least twice per week:)
I will alternate days between body-weight exercises and aerobic workouts 6 days per week.
I’m happy to have found this! My plan is to to yoga every other day and and some kind of high intensity and focus area workout the other days.
Thank you for sharing this challenge. My goal is to work out 2 x a week.
My January goal is to stretch each morning and walk 3 times each week !
I’m in for the challenge. My exercise goal is to do high intensity exercise for at least 15mins 3-5 times a week as well as brisk walking for 30mins 3-5 times a week
Just discovered this challenge today. I guess it is never to late to start. 🙂 I plan on hopping on the treadmill and start an exercise program that was given to me by a physio friend to help strengthen my back and stretch my tight muscles (I’ve been putting this off). I’m a true procrastinator when it comes to exercise so this challenge is well needed to keep me on track.
Exercise 5 or 6 days per week.
I have been doing the slimfast diet and curves 3x a week down 3 lbs
I’m a little late to join but regular exercise is part of my routine, so I think I’m okay for this month. My exercise goals are to run at least 20 miles per week (I’ve been running regularly for 3 years now) and add in strength training and beginner pilates. I need to strengthen my core! Looking forward to joining this challenge with you. Thanks for having me!
I am excited to be joining your group! My goal for Jan. is to do the elliptical for 30 minutes every other day and to start T-Tapp exercises daily.
A little late but my goal is to ride my new exercise bike 3-5 times a week for 40 mins to an hour. So far I’m doing great. 🙂
I will be at least doing 2 workouts a week
I hope I’m not too late!!!
Late start but my goal is to get moving at least 30 minutes 3 times a week. I’ve been a bit stagnant this last year after starting back to school and working full time. I KNOW how much better I feel when I exercise and will make NO excuses as to limits on my time. Exercise gives you so much more energy that you can accomplish so much more in the same amount of time
I’m a little late on starting this, but my goal is to exercise 5 days a week, primarily over my lunch break, since I get two hours. I love the idea of breaking this down into a month-by-month challenge! Makes it so much easier to feel like something is being accomplished.
Well, I’m a bit behind in joining this challenge, but I’m completely on board! My word for 2014 is “Restore”–in both physical and emotional health. My January goal (which I’ve been working on for a couple weeks now) is to cut out all sugar, dairy, preservatives, and grains. While challenging, this is a fairly doable goal as I already avoid dairy and grain most of the time and have been working on cutting out the sugar. So far, my one sticking point has been corn–I just haven’t been able to eliminate that yet! Other than that, fairly successful. While I may not keep all of these foods out of my diet for life, it will jumpstart my health by eliminating my key allergens and allowing some needed healing to take place. 🙂
Very excited, right inline with my New Years resolutions.
I love this challenge … thanks for the motivation! My goal for this month is to do yoga twice every week. I’m on track so far! I found a class that meets Tuesdays and Thursdays that I really enjoy. When I do yoga in the morning, I feel more energized and less stressed the rest of the day!
Exercise a minimum of 4 days per week making sure I incorporate the use of weights. I have lost muscle tone over the past few yeears.
My plan is to do some form of exercise at least 5 days a week. I have done the P90X program in the past & loved it. The holidays left me feeling I had no time for exercise & I can really feel the difference! I’m ready to get back to alternating a P90X workout with a Zumba class at the gym. If my schedule causes me to alter my plan…I’ll take a brisk walk with what time I have. Thanks for the challenge & the opportunity to join you!
Well I’m always a little slow getting started but I plan on working out 3x a week at the gym. I’ll start there and hopefully can add a couple days at home as the weather warms up. I’ve got my accountability partner and I’m ready to do this!
Goal for week 2 is to 5 days of 30 minutes of up and down hill walking, again. I anticipate that scheduling this will be harder this week. I plan to check back in after the week — around next Monday — knowing that I am planning to do this should help.
This is a wonderful challenge. My goal is to exercise at least 5 days a week. I am doing several mild work-outs I found on-line (I’m pretty far out of shape). I actually started in December. Yesterday at church someone came up to me and asked if I was losing weight. Actually, no, but the exercise is firming me up! 🙂
Yes, I plan on exercising 3 days a week. Thank you for doing this!
Am giving it a try
I just read about the challenge and I’m in. I plan to wear my fitbit and get 10,000 steps daily.
Yes, I’m in! I ended last year and began this year fighting this upper respiratory infection, so my goal is to walk every day (so I won’t get sick as often!!!) I’m shooting for now, 30 minutes a day with plans to increase the time and intensity and add in some strength training 2x a week and yoga on the opposite days I strength train. I feel that having to post this gives me more incentive to try to keep on track. So many times before, I’d just stop exercising altogether and I was the only one I had to report to! Thank you for such an awesome website! I really wish this was around when my kids were small!
My exercise goals are to follow my training plan for the half marathon I am planning to run in May.
Okay, I’ll try this. I usually go to a 45 minute water aerobics class twice a week and I’m taking a tap dancing class (yes, I am LOL) 30 minutes a week, but I need to do more. I’m going to walk at least 30 minutes 3 days a week. That will be exercising 5 days a week. Let’s see if I can do it!
My goal is just to get started lol. I will do 3x a week and I am starting with videos and kinect exercise games I have at home
I started making my healthy changes 2 weeks before Christmas. I did not want to be the typical person who makes that New Year’s Resolution on Jan.1 just to stop in Feb. My goal was to workout a minimum of 5 days per week. Including 1 hour of cardio, and toning exercises alternating muscle groups daily. I have stayed on track, and met my goal, losing 22 lbs. the first month. I love seeing myself literally transforming. Excited to make new goals, and achieve them, and make this my healthiest year yet.
My goal is to exercise 5 days a week. Today I did 40 minutes on the treadmill and 30 minutes on stationary bike. My legs are extremely sore from a workout on Wednesday. I start a cleanse on Sunday and clean eating. Excited!
I plan to do a Curves Workout at least 5x s week.
My goal is to do the wiifit for at least 30 minutes a day and/or walk at least 2 miles a day if the weather is cooperative! 🙂
I’d like to join in. I would like to walk 5 times a week, do yoga once a week and then Zumba maybe 2-3 times a week,
Ok I went to the gym twice but didn’t go the other 2 times!
Ugh!! Not happy about that. I will go tomorrow morning
After I drop my youngest off at his gym!! Hopefully
I will do better next week!
My exercise goal is to work out 4-5 times per week. I joined a gym with child care in October, and was doing yoga, Pilates, and Zumba regularly. Then I went on vacation for a week over Christmas and when I got back I got sick. I’m still not feeling great, but I am hoping to get back to the gym next week.
Yes I am joining you for 12 month challenger!
My Jan. exercise goal is to do 30 push-ups, 30 sit-ups, 20 curls with weights, and 20 squats every day, and to walk one day a week. I believe this will be doable to me, and then I will gradually start doing more.
I would like to join your 12 months to a healthier you challenge. Right now I’m involved in Stop.Choose.Challenge 12 week transformation challenge thru Medifast. But I can use all the support and advice I can get! My exercise goal this month is to incorporate daily 1 mile walks and lunges plus 2 strength training days, 1 zumba class, and one kickboxing class. So far so good. I haven’t missed a walking day yet.
My goal is to take ballet twice a week (I need to find another class). And to run 3 times per week.
I just found this challenge and love the way it’s broken down into months. My goal is to do my new physical therapy exercises daily and not skip them. I’m recovering from back surgery and up till now have not been doing anything more than basic walking!! As soon as I get my strength back I will add to my “daily routine”…excited!!
I didn’t know this was around, but I have kind of already started, lol. I want to actually finish the 30 day ab challenge in January. Ihad started it in june last year, made it to day 14 and quit because I was going to be traveling for 2 weeks. I have no travel plans so I am going to finish it. Am currently on day 9.
This challenge is just exactly what I need to help be to become a better me in 2014. I love that each month is a new healthy goal and they are attainable goals! My exercise goal is to exercise 5 times a week. Right now I am on week 2 of this goal and I am focusing in cardio, which right now consist of a 2 mile run/ walk mix and hula- hooping. I plan on throwing strength training on alternating days starting tomorrow.
My exercise goal is tong to gym 3 times a week for an hourl
My goal for January is to walk 3-4 times per week and work my way up to running. Focusing on losing weight and getting into shape was already near the top of my list for 2014, and this way seems very do-able! I’m excited!
I am in! I like the idea of tackling small goals together. Mom of three with the youngest being 7 months old and still have not made it a priority get healthy again. I miss it! I’m starting now! Will commit to walking 30 minutes a day
Well my goal right now is to exercise one- two times per week. I have chronic pain illness so I am not sure how much I can do so I am going to start there. I am doing a yoga RX class one night a week so I hope to add a little more to it.
Awesome!! I’m in! I started T25. I’m on day 3 today. My goal for January is to follow the T25 schedule and push play everyday.
I am a little late just got back from an all cash vacation to see my mom out of the country. My goal is to do Supreme 90 twice a week and elliptical once a week 30 minute min. I have a real problem with sticking with things and I hope this challenge will help me follow through. I also wish to increase this but wanted to start out with something I know I can do, this concept it totally new to me.
I’m in!! I will be walking more and doing DDPYOGA. Thanks for the push!!!
Thank you for the encouragement to be healthier this year. I need it.
I was doing 5 days per week on treadmill/elliptical before I got sick right before Christmas.
I am up for the challenge of getting back to my exercise. I am feeling better now and I think I will start with three days a week with a goal at the end of January of 5 days again!
I was just looking for some extra encouragement for my weight loss goals. I was doing great until Christmas, and now I’m back to the same old-same old. My goal is to workout 3 times a week on my elliptical for 40 minutes each workout.
Yes I am joining. I am planning on exercising 6 days a week. Three days of strength training followed by couch to 5k running program. The other three days will be just running.
Yes. I participated in a Coach to 5k the end of last year and participated (walked) in my first ever 5k. I have continued to walk and a friend purchased a 4 month membership to her gym. (motivation for her as well). Feeling better and want to continue this so I can run a 5k.
My goal for January. ..do crossfit 3x a week
Just found this challenge so I’m a few days late. My goal is to exercise at least 3 times a week. I was also looking at the schedule and I’m already doing February by participating in 30 Day Green Smoothie challenge 🙂
After pretty much taking all of fall and the beginning of winter off, I started training for my fifth marathon this past weekend. My training plan involves running three days a week and weight training two days a week. I feel so much better when I am focused on a training goal!
ay to go!
My goal is to exercise four-five days a week for at least 30 minutes and to complete a 30 day squat challenge.
Yes- my goal is to do some type of exercise at least 3x per week.
I really like the schedule as well- seems more encouraging and not unrealistic.
I plan on joining but my exercise goal is small right now, I plan on joining a zumba class and working out there 3 times a week. I will just start this on Friday the 10th.
I’d like to join! My January goal is work out 3x a week
I plan to increase my steps to get to the 10,000 recommended every day and exercise to my yoga tapes at lease 3 days a week .
My exercise goal is walk on the treadmill 3x a week, IN THE MORNINGS, for 30 minutes.
I plan on working out 3 mornings a week and 2 walks with my kids during the week also. That should be do able for me, I have to start small and build it up up up! 🙂
I have a gym membership so my goal is to workout at least 3 times a week as well as walking 10,000 steps a day.
Great monthly focus areas!
This month I plan to walk at least 3,400 steps a day 5 days a week. Not being able to get out in the cold and being inside a very small country home makes this a challenge for me.
Thank you for including me in your journey.
I am training for my first sprint distance triathlon this summer. I did a mini last year and had a great time, but this is about 3 times as long. I already go to the gym 4-5 days a week, and do a spin class regularly, so the cycling is not an issue. I am working on getting to swim class every Sunday, and need to start the couch to 5K program and stick with it.
would like to try and walk for 10 min after each meal
I’m in! I have a crazy January so my goal is 30-45 min exercise 3 days per week. I’m also aiming to get to the gym 2x while away next weekend.
Starting a little late but my goal is to restart T 25 and do it the 5 days a week but instead of having the weekend off I’m going to take Tuesday and Thursday off for school
I would like to join the challenge. I haven’t been exercising at all so I am going to start small. My goal is to exercise for 30 minutes a day at least 4 days a week.
I have signed up for my YMCA’s 8 week Tabata bootcamp which begins this coming Monday, January 6. In addition I plan to continue spin and Zumba classes along with playing tennis, Monday through Friday. On weekends, my husband and I plan to ride our bikes whenever the weather cooperates.
My goal is simply to work out every day. I do great when work is not busy, but when work gets crazy (which is often these days), my workouts hit the back burner. I’ve struggled with this for years. I know it’s not good.
I’m in! Just got a family membership to our YMCA and hope to get 3 times a week plus doing elliptical at home!
This is great! I will aim for 5 days a week of exercise. I will start with our exercise bike.
Thanks for the encouragement!
Reading MSM emails for over a year has opened my eyes to my need for greater self-discipline. Also have 2 kids with health issues that benefit from more exercise. Sooo…I’m going to join this courageous group with a realistic goal of 10+ min. of intentional exercise a day/5 days a week. Not counting chores or walking around Wal Mart for an hour! 🙂
I love this goal and am cheering you on in your success!
I just happened to find your site. I like the idea of making one change per month. I have tried the all at once approach and it does NOT work for me.
My goal is to walk 1-2 miles on my treadmill 4 days per week. I’m also in the process of looking for a full-time job so we will see how this works.
Getting a little late start, but will be joining in this! I had been in a good habit of working out – love it actually. Then got sick the week before Thanksgiving, and never got over it or back to the gym on a regular basis. I am committing to 3+ days a week (I had been getting 5-6, but until I get back at it and over the sickies, I am being realistic) at the gym or working out at home with all the great workout equipment my family gave me for Christmas.
Yes, I am in! My goals are stay with the Focus T25 work out schedule, complete my daily food journal and wake up 30 minutes earlier on Sundays to avoid the mad rush to get ready for church. Thanks!!
I need all the help I can get – and am happy to offer encouragement to others as well! Happy 2014 Ladies!
Oh and on the exercise front, I have joined up here and will be doing this for 5-55 min a day: https://www.facebook.com/groups/StayAtHomeYoga/633322510061674/?notif_t=like
And this: http://shrinkingjeans.net/2013/12/squat-pushup-bootcamp/
And this, at least 4 days a week: http://www.landryacademy.com/moms-walk.htm
Any of this will be an improvement for me over the past year and I am tremendously grateful!
A little late, but my goal for January is to walk outside or do a walking video for at least 15 minutes at least 5 days/week.
I like that this challenge is broken down into months ~ I am more willing to try this then everything at one time. Count me in
Love this idea and I need the direction for sure. Did really good with my walking the first 6 months of 2013, but not so much the last 6. I had a hysterectomy in November and I am ready to get going again now that I’m healthy. Will start back walking and logging miles which is an instinctive for me always trying to log more miles each week and month.
will give it a try
I would like to join, my initial goal is to just move or do something…i have 5 areas i will work on with strength training, and zumba or dance daily
Count me in.
I’m joining. My exercise goal is to walk 5000 steps a day. Due to physical limitations I currently walk only about 1500 steps a day so this is a huge increase for me.
Yes I would love to join this group. My aim for January is to include at least 10 min daily workout
This sounds great!! I plan to do a kettle bell workout three days a week to start and to make my bike to work a little more challenging.
I offically start exercising tomorrow (4x a week) doing P90. My week starts on Friday, so I weighed in and got my Fitness Pal dialed in.
My word for the year is Progress!
I’m in! My goal is tobuse my exercise room 3 times per week, and get outdoors and do something active with the fam once per week 🙂
I think this is a great challenge ! I have been looking for ways to get my 2014 “New Year! New Me” lifestyle change jump started and this seems perfect. I really think adding a new goal each moth is a great idea so you have time achieve the first before moving on an adding the next goal. My fitness plan is to be active for 25-30 minutes (maybe more) , atleast 5 days a week. I have the T25 work out plan which I will do as well as walking and hiking.
I’m excited for this! My goal will be to exercise for 30 minutes 3x per week.
I’ve started the C25K program and plan to continue that 3x per week. Also have a meeting with a personal trainer at the gym scheduled for Monday!
I’m in! My goal is to exercise 4 times a week.
I’m in! I’m running 3 days a week and strength training 2 days a week. I’ll fit in some yoga or other stretching program 1 day a week.
I’m in! My goal for now is to exercise for 30 minutes 3 times per week.
I’m in!
I want to loose 10 pounds. I know I should loose close to 40 pounds but if I say 10 I think I actually can do that.
My goal is to consistently do 30 minutes of cardio 3x/week and add 2 days of strength after about a month or two – have to start slow 🙂
My goal is to hit the gym at my local college at least once per week and to start up Turbo Jam again a minimum of twice a week.
Will exercise a minimum of 3 days/week leading to a return to running!
I am so excited about this! It’s genius! Sometimes it just takes a little extra help. I plan to do the 40 minute Shredmill workout 5x a week 🙂
Work Out at the Gym at least 3 times a week
I want to get in a habit of exercising more and feeling the benefits of exercise. More energy clothes fit better, lower blood pressure and cholesterol.
Count me in! I’m so glad to find someone who has doable goals for the year ahead. I have a bad habit of over-committing so I’m going to agree to a simple 15 minutes of moving (walking, stretching, ta-chi, or strengthening) 5 times a week for the first week and then add 5 additional minutes each week after for the month of January. That will put me at 30 minutes 5 times a week by the end of January; then I can build from there. Thank you again for making this 2014 goal something that anyone can achieve!
My baby just turned 7 weeks on the 1st. I’ve lost all but 8 pounds of my baby weight. Since I’m nursing I have to lose the rest slowly and would like to lose the additional 10 pounds I gained right before my pregnancy due to steroids for a 3 month bout with bronchitis and pneumonia. My plan is to get 15 minutes of exercise each morning and evening, aerobic in the morning and yoga in the evening.
My goal is to exercise on my recumbent bike three times a week.
Yes, I plan on doing the tread climber 6 days a week
Yes, I am with you all!! I plan on walking 30 min 5x a week and adding yoga to my routine 3 time a week. I look forward to the accountability and encouragement. Thank you ! Best wishes to all and a Blessed Happy Healthy New Year 2014. 🙂
I started to go back to curves July 2013 to lose the last 30lbs of my baby weight. I managed to lose 10lbs in 6 mths. My goal is to continue to try and do it 3x a week and maybe on the other days start Pilates.
Exercise at least 6 days/week – a combination of strength training, running, and yoga.
Thanks so much for creating the challenge!!
My goal for January is to try and start exercising. At least 2 a week.
I’m joining the 12 month challenge! I plan to get up early enough daily to get some form of cardio for 30 min.
I’m in. I will do my workout video or jog at least 5 days a week. I so NEED accountability!!!
I have been trying to come up with my own version of this, but this will help with accountability. I am really bad at making time to exercise. My goal will have to start small. For January, I plan to exercise for 30 minutes at least 3 days a week. Be it walking, cycling, WiiFit, videos, yoga, whatever….
On a side note, I completed the p90x program a couple years ago at this time and felt so great! I lost 23 pounds and was so toned. But I sadly did not keep it up after the program. Time to start all over….
My exercise goals are to do cardio 3x a week for 45 -60 min and strength training 3x a week.
My goals for January are to eat only when hungry and to eat small meals 5-6 times a day
I am doing this! My goal is to run three times a week. Also to do a daily toning exercise. I am doing planks in January. Thanks for the encouragement!
I’m in- my goal for January is consistency. I plan on exercising everyday anywhere between 45 -60 minutes. I will be doing Insanity 6 days a week and will rotate an exercise routine for the 7th day.
I am in. I am going to start to do Tabata regularly. 6 days a week a 6 minute exercise to start the day, 2 days a week 60 minute tabata class, and the. 3 mornings a week meet my friend at gym for 45 minutes to walk.
to walk/run at least 4 days a week, working up to a 5k run
to diversify my exercise: start yoga 2x/wk in Feb & tennis in March
Yes- my goal is to run/walk for 30 min 4-5x a week.
I love all the monthly goals listed for this year. I, too, wanted to make a change in having a healthier year and lifestyle and these monthly goals make it more attainable. My goal this month is to do some form of exercise everyday such as walking, yoga, etc. Here’s to new beginnings.
take care
I need to bump up my cardio, so I signed up for a (gulp), 5:30 am spin class. I also switched my weekly pilates to piloxing. Just for a change of pace. My other days will be Barre class, treadmill, or just videos in the basement. I always aim for 5 days of exercise.
Yes, I will be joining you in focusing on health in 2014. My goal for January is to do some form of exercise everyday, and trying to get it in during morning hours “before” my kids are up. I would also like to do at least one intense workout class a week, like spin. Having at least one group class a week really seems to motivate me during the rest of the week in my regular workouts.
Thanks for the encouragement! Karen
I would like to join the challenge. I plan to walk on our treadclimber, five times a week.
My goal for January is to exercise 6 times per week. I am going to follow the Turbo Fire schedule. I received my DVDs today and I’m going to start the program tomorrow (Jan. 4). I’m already on my way to meeting my 6x week goal because I have been doing Chalene Extreme and the online Firestarter class since Sunday (Dec. 29).
I’m in! I’m going to T-tap several days and week and walk on the alternate days. At least 5x per week. I need to do something. After I’ve lost some weight, I’m going to start jogging again. I miss feeling good.
I plan on walking 5 kms. 4 times a week. I plan on aqua-fit one day a week (min). This is great 🙂 Best of luck to everyone, Happy New Year! Alicia
My goals for January:
1. Get back into regular exercise – weights and running 3-5 days per week.
2. Begin changing my overall diet – for January a strict introduction to Paleo
3. Stay happily married – my husband is doing this with me 😉 Bless his heart LOL!
So far, so good.
Well I need some place to be accountable for this year and I’m especially interested in having a month-long focus, then building on it the next month. So, count me in!
I have a terrible tendency to be over-zealous and make big promises, so I’m going to start very small with a plan to get up and get moving 20 minutes a day — preferably walking. I even have an alarm on my phone at 1 PM every day that has the song “I like to move it, move it” as the alarm tone. I figure if I can do that for a full month, I can increase it next month (or sooner I hope) and add the next focus area. Anything over the 20 minutes per day is only a bonus for me and my overall health.
Thanks so much for creating a doable challenge for a healthier 2014.
I would love to join you and all the others that are starting this challenge. I will be starting P90X3 on Monday the 6th. Looking forward to hearing about everyone’s progress.
Happy Healthy New Year to us all!
I plan on getting healthy and doing the challenge!
I’m in! This is my first real attempt at regular exercise so I am looking for the best program. I started today by walking and plan to do a couch to 5k but also want some strength training. I’m not over weight but am in the worst imaginable shape with no stamina and I’m very weak. Any suggestions? I’m healthy and almost 50 yrs old.
Annette,
Jillian Michaels “Ripped in 30” is a good program to build up stamina and strength. There are 4 different workouts on the DVD – each one is more difficult than the previous one. In each workout, she has a beginner version of every exercise. I have used almost every single JM DVD (including the 3 month Body Revolution) and Ripped in 30 is one of her best – especially for beginners. I have also completed Chalene Extreme from Beachbody and I am about to start Turbo Fire. I hope this information helps!
I’m just finding this, but my goal is to exercise 4 times a week and to get my kids involved with that too. I’ve got a walk at home video that we’ve used before and we also will try to do yoga to help my daughter with dance and me with flexibility.
I’m in! My exercise goal this month is to exercise 5 days a week alternating between cardio and weight training.
My exercise goal is to work out at least 3 days
To have a formal workout for at least 30 mins 5 days a week. Running, gym, weights, video workout, whatever – 5days a week!
so glad you are doing this love to be apart of it! I’m currently walking 5 miles a day 3 to 4 days a week. I’d like to throw in some weights and also up my workout to everyday!!!
I need to loose weight for my better health, I enjoy stretching but also the whole 9 yards, with cardio; and circuit training. I would like to attend a run with my friend that does them often so that would be a goal of mine.
I love the areas of focus. My challenge is to exercise 4-5 days a week.
Exercise at least 5 days a week with one day to include a spinning class.
I am going to do Zumba 3x a week and strength training 3x a week.
I’m in!
Think this is a great way to start healthier.
I’m starting off with a 21 day yoga challenge for my fitness goals in January.
Yay!! my goal is just to be healthier…I want to go on a 2 mile walk every morning after dropping the kids off at school, and watch what I eat! Thanks for the encouragement!
I too resolved to become healthier in 2014!! I love this idea of 12 months to a healthier you!! I’m in!! My fitness goal for January is to run 2 miles 4 times a week. I’ve got 2 days done already and I even added an extra mile on Wednesday!
I’m in! I need this, and I appreciate the way you broke it down into manageable steps! THANKS!
I’m totally in!
For January, my exercise goal is to be able to run an entire mile. Running has never really been my thing, but I would like to participate in a 5K this spring, so I’m working my way up. I can run about 1/2 mile right now, but not consistently. It’s going to be tough with my asthma, but I know I can do it if I keep pushing myself and don’t give up!
I am reinstating my curves membership. Hoping for a more successful year than last year after an unexpected hysterectomy. Now I have to work even harder. But I am up to the challange. 🙂
Looking forward a new challenge. Will start with committing to 4 days of walking with Leslie Sansone. No more couch potato!
My goal this month in the 12 Months Challenge is to walk 30 minutes at least 5 times a week! I’m super pumped!!!
Work out 4 days a week
I’m in! My hubby and are I joining a gun that offers childcare so we can workout together. Planning 3x weekly. I really like the idea of making changes all year, not so overwhelming.
I joined the gym
My goal is to just lose weight, as much as I possibly can, before my first mission trip (to Honduras) the last week of March. I have just hit the weight that I was at the end of my last pregnancy…but I’m not pregnant! My goal in January is to just get moving, and to make it a habit!
Yes, this has been lingering on my to do list for quite some time, I am in!
My name is Sharisah and I’ve finally gotten fed up with being to heavy. It’s beginning to be hard to do normal things and I’ve become lazy so I decided on a life change and finding your post just motivated me even more. LET’S GO!!!
I am going to try my hardest to do this. I need to find out how to stick with it and not get side tracked. I plan on hit the gym at work 3 to 5 a week. But I don’t always feel like I know what I am doing andbthen get frustrated and give up. So with finding this site I have hopefully found something to keep me going.
I’m in! Doing the Ballet Beautiful workout 3x a week with yoga Tuesday/Thursday and cardio on Saturday.
I’m in! I lost 50 lbs. 4 mos. ago, have kept it off, and now I belong to a wonderful gym nearby. I would like to lose another 10 lbs., as well as I would like to continue going to the gym regularly 4-5 times a week.
My goal for January is to get to the gym at least 5 days a week.
I’m in. I like your monthly goals: I’ve made progress on
some last year (like drinking more water) but struggle with others ( less sugar!). Lately I’ve been exercising 5 times a week ( running, swimming, brisk walking, yoga…). I’d like to up it to 7- even if it’s only a 30 minutes yoga session at home. I’d also like to start & finish every day with a yoga posture ( instead of, you know, stuffing down chocolate right before bedtime!:) Good Luck to everyone!
hi!this is the challenge i was looking for!sign me in!!!!
I am joining. I like the emphasis on regularity of exercise.
My goal is to walk upslope 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week.
I will chart this.
In July I suffered a spinal cord injury not caused by trauma. Its a condition called transverse myelitis. I love this program u have set up because its not specific. We all work on the same issues but can personalize it to meet our own challenges. For me my goal for January will be to do the program that my physical therapist designed for me. My goal is 5 times a week.
I’m in. I am excited about these challenges! In January I plan to walk four times a week. And try Zumba atleast once a week.
Yes, my goal is to going a local fitness center and I will also be joining Weight Watchers. Hopefully I can get to the center at least 3 times a wk.
I would like to join this challenge.
My goal is to start walking at least 3 times per week.
Exercise four times a week
This sounds like a great idea. I like the schedule. I want to walk 2-3 days a week and start doing a kettlebell routine on days in between
Planning on it…my sister as well!
Yes! What a great idea breaking goals down by month. I have a Y membership. My goal is to use it 5 days a week:)
My goals for January are to exercise at least 4 days a week. A friend of my husband has the P90X which he is going to let me use. Looking forward to giving it a try!
Thank you for sharing your challenge! My plan is to start an exercise routine on my Wii fit in the mornings before my kids wake up.
Ill Be joining in on he challenge
Thank you for sharing your 12 month challenge. I look forward to joining you this month by making time before my kids wake up to start back on my Wii fit and taking the first steps to start exercising again after having another baby.
I plan to start with 3x a week for 30 minutes on the elliptical. I have been having a hard time making time for exercise in my busy schedule, but I need to improve my health. I have a bad habit of thinking in terms of all or nothing. The 12 month plan is a great way to break it down in to smaller achievable goals. Thanks!
Joining in! Plan to walk daily. Attempt to form a workout schedule with children underfoot while preparing to move and all the rest! It’s a crazy stressful month but hopefully a workout can relieve some stress.
I will be joining you for this challenge. For the month of January I will be doing my Zumba DVDs 3 days a week and stretches and deep relaxing breathing the other 4 nights. This is a challenge for me just to sit still and relax without trying to multi-task.
Start by walking more (3x per week) and moving to running.
I like this idea! My adrenal glands are not functioning properly and I went from daily running/active to being unable to exercise at all 🙁 I do not like being sedentary AT ALL, but it has become a way of life. I plan to take a short, easy walk five days a week. If my body does not handle it, I will reduce to every other day. It isn’t so overwhelming to focus on one step a month. Great idea and thank you for the encouragement!
My goal is to start taking water aerobics three times a week.
I am in. Very excited about this challenge. I struggled with losing baby weight from my first pregnancy and then got pregnant again and now I feel like I am never going to lose it.
yes and i’m planning to walk at least 5 days a week and for at least 30 minutes each time.
My goal is to exercise 3-4 days a week including weight training, running, swimming…consistently. I want to begin training for my first half-marathon.
I’m planning to exercise 5 days a week, Leslie Sansome DVDS – walking and strength training.
Yes! – recumbent riding 30mins 5x /week
Walking in an indoor track. Too cold for the outdoors!
I’m in. I have physical issues (lots of limitations) so I am baby stepping into the few things I can do because I want to be healthier. My goal is to go to the gym with my husband on the weekdays he has off (which is quite a bit) & walk or ride the bike. I’m doing a squat challenge I found on pintrest.
I’d love to join in! My goal for January is to walk 20 miles a week. I’m actually a part of a 1000 mile challenge for this year. To walk/jog/bike/swim, etc. 1000 miles by the end of the year. This is ~2.7 miles a day for 365 days. I’m looking forward to this series! Thanks!
Would love the join the challenge!
My exercise goals for January are to swim 1.5miles a week , weight workout once a week and start training plan for running a half-marathon.
I just stumbled upon your site (clearly I’ve been missing out!) and was thrilled when I saw this challenge. This is EXACTLY what I needed. My goal for this month is to exercise daily for at least 10 minutes. SO excited and can’t wait to read more!
Looking forward to getting started. My goal is to walk/elliptical 4 or 5 day/week.
Count me in! Thx for having this and keepin me accountable. God bless you!
Exercising regularly is on my list of goals for this year! Such perfect timing for this post! I just had a baby in August and it’s time to lose the last bit of baby weight.
I plan on starting slow and my goal is to exercise 2x per week to start with and work up to 5x by the end of the year.
I’ll either start with the Jillian Michael’s Shred dvd or another workout I found on Pinterest.
Begin training for a marathon in May!
Hello! I will be joining your year to a healthier you. For this first month my goal is to workout 3x a week. I have a special needs child, and two typical kids, so its hard to do this so my goal needs to be realistic. I am looking forward to it!
I’m joining!
http://spendless2savemore.blogspot.com/2014/01/12-months-to-healthier-you-challenge.html
Great! My plan is to work out at BAC 4 days a week for 45 minutes. Thanks, Sharon
I am in! My plan is to run/walk or pilates 3 times per week. Thank you.
I want to join the 12 months to a healthier you challenge. I plan to walk 5 days a week.
I’m in I know that I could use to be healthier.
Yes, I am in! I plan on going to the gym at least 5 times a week. Last year my husband I did really well for weeks at a time with this but then there were weeks we were so busy that we didn’t get to the gym at all! One of my goals this year is to be more consistent in this area!
Brisk walks 3 times a week. I will probably increase the time but for the beginning this is a good start.
I have started using our elliptical. My goal is to get to 30 minutes 4 – 5 times per week, walk the dogs on days it’s not too cold, and do 15 minutes of yoga most days.
My goal is to go to the gym 2 times a week and exercise at home 2 other days.
I loved P90X, you can see amazing results, but it is hardcore for sure! You are awesome for knocking that one out. I see many items on your 12 months that are on my 12 weeks. They are great. Thanks for sharing them, I am excited for the new year and the opportunity it brings.
I’m totally on board with this! It’s just what I need to help me realize some of my healthy living goals for the year. I’ll look forward to blogging my progress along with you.
YES! I plan on walking & jogging at least 4 miles 4 days a week & weight training the other 3. Looking forward to a great 2014!
This is an awesome way to start the new year and to continue with the resolutions the whole year through! I’d love to be a part of it!
12 Months to a Healthier You Challenge sounds tailor made for me… Thanks so much for putting this together and count me in! 🙂 My exercise goal for January is 20 minutes of exercise 5 days per week… I’ll alternate between outdoor run/walks and my T-Tapp dvds…
I plan to join. I have previously been training to run a 5k. I haven’t trained for 2 months. My goal is to get back into a routine and start moving again.
I want to join. I plan to Do the Curves Circuit Workout.
Exercise 3-5x per week. Starting Curves with a friend next week.
Perfect! 2013 was a huge year for me, health-wise, as I truly committed to exercise and walked in 3 5Ks! I have my first 10K set for May of this year. But, these other areas…I could use some motivation! I’ll gladly join up. For January, I’ll keep exercising to a 4x/week goal as I’m prepping to move Feb. 1st.
yes. I would like to start exercising at least 3 days a week. and work up. to 5 days a week. I would also like to do some weighttraining.
Yes, I want to join the Healthier You Challenge! 🙂
Hey I just read this and I’m totally up for the challenge!!! 2014 is already going to be a life changing year (I’m getting married to my college bf of 5 years 🙂 ) and I was already planning on working out a lot more to get ready for my honeymoon in June! My plan is to do the Brazil Butt Life again I did it last year and the results were great but I lost motivation so I’m trying again. Also I’ll be working in weights and biking once the weather gets warmer. 🙂 Thank you for starting this challenge for the year, its gonna be a good one.
I’m in!!! My work out goals are to work out consistently 5 times a week!
10000 steps a day! iBitz
My workout goal will be 4 days a week doing cardio. I would love to do kick boxing.
I am in
Run/walk at least 4 times a week (for at least 30minutes each time)
I’m in! I plan to continue to exercise every morning (M-F) with Jillian Michaels (DVDs) and run 5k on the treadmill 3 days a week in preparation for my first 5K race in February!
i’m a post boston marathoner who, at almost 52, am fighting age issues. thanks for this post to help me conquer the small bad choices.
Great! I am very pleased to join you on this journey. I worked out consistently for the past several years (and even became a group fitness instructor)and just inexplicably fell off the wagon months ago and have gained back all I had lost plus quite a bit extra. It will be a long row to hoe but I love breaking things down into baby steps. I did 30 min cardio today and I think 30 min 4 days a week is a great goal. I will more likely do Insanity if I go some at home because I love that instructor. 🙂
My goal is to start Insanity this month. I am planning on starting on Monday.
I’m totally in!! I have committed to following the T25 workout schedule.
My goal is to ride the stationary bike and/or walk at least 5 days a week for this month.
Thanks!
I will MOVE daily… C25K, gym, walking the dog, dancing in my living room…MOVE.
I’m in! My goal is to run three times a week and weight train twice a week
My goal for January is to exercise a minimum of 4 days/week. This will be accomplished mostly through walking.
My exercise goal is to walk at least 20 minutes 3x per week.
I like how its broken down. I will b giving it a try!
I love this idea! I recently gave up a membership at Curves and am trying to be healthy on my own, but it it’s HARD! I would definitely love to join this community health challenge. I’ve already decided that I will exercise for 30 minutes every day–outside, if possible. I’ve been trying to eat nutritious foods, but often fail, so I’m trying to be very conscious of what I eat for each meal and when I eat it.
I can’t wait to learn some helpful tips here as we learn to put our health first!
I plan to join the challenge by doing Zumba and Jillian Michael DVDs for Strength Training 5 days a week.
Yes!! I bought me and my daughter a gym membership and I have committed to at least working out 3 days per week, I would like to do 5, but not up for it yet. I just finished 2 years in a Masters Program and did not work out at all during the entire time. Need to start slow! I also bought a used bike last year from my mom that I plan to ride a few times a week when the weather is good. I also love to hike, but haven’t had a chance to in 2 years. I used to hike a lot!
Thanks for breaking the challenges into months. It seems so much more manageable. I truly believe I can do it. I turned 50 this year and it is true how the weight packs on as you get older. I needed this motivation!
I am all ready on my way to a healthier me. But, I plan to try my best to follow this challenge, as well. I’ve lost 31 lbs. so far! My exercise goals for January will involve walking 4 times a week. I am involved in an employee “marathon” at work on March 1. I have quite a bit more weight to lose, but I will do it!! 🙂
Yes, I’ll try this challenge. My life just changed somewhat dramatically. I went from working 70 hours a week to working three easy nights and being a stay-at-home mom. I didn’t have time to eat, exercise, sleep or enjoy my daughter and I’m ready to start a fresh year! This is perfect timing.
I’m in need of this challenge and especially the weekly accountability posts. I’ll start with 3 days a week for exercise and hope to add more days as the months go on. Thank you, Crystal.
What a terrific challenge! I try to give my health plenty of attention, but following your posts will help to hone in on trouble spots.
I am so in with this challenge. I also have chronic illnesses and have really struggled with my health over the past couple of years. I need to do all I can to get healthier and stronger. I bought a tai chi DVD and am going to practice it for at least 10 minutes a day three times a week. Right now I’m battling some nasty respiratory problems so being able to start slow is perfect. Thanks for the challenge.
Im pregnant, but I still need to exercise! I haven’t been exercising nearly enough, so my goal is to walk 3-5 times a week for at least 15 minutes, and do my prenatal pilates dvd at least 3 times a week.
I plan on joining in. I am commiting to walking my dogs for 30 minutes 5 days a week. 🙂
I will be doing either my bike or treadmill 5 days/wk for a minimum of 30 minutes. I also do a warm-up before each to a Chris Powell you tube video.
I’d like to start to do Zumba videos.
I plan on switching between yoga and a walking exercise video 5 days per week. Finished my first day today!!
Great post! I plan on doing the “weight loss” program on my elliptical 4-5 days a week. I am going to try to eliminate wheat/breads from my diet.
I LOVE IT! My husband bought an xbox and a zumba workout game for it. I plan to do Zumba 3 times a week, and walk for at least 30 minutes on the other days.
Will be exercising 5 days a week with Turbo Jam, then will switch it up to Turbo Fire at some point. Have to build up endurance. I am part of a Fitness Accountability Group on Facebook, and this is helping a lot.
Use the elliptical three times a week! 🙂
I am going to exercise 3 days a week.
Sounds really doable! My goal is to TTAPP (15 minute workout) everyday first thing in the morning & take walks with my friend Karen on Saturdays. I might also try doing TTAPP at work.
My goal is to use my elliptical I got an amazing deal on at least 5 times a week.
I’m really excited about this challenge! After battling with a neck and back injury for several months, I finally got the green light from my physician to resume exercise. I am going to try to do the T25 program which is 25 minutes a day 6 times a week. We’ll see how that goes!! Thanks for sharing this!!
couch to 5k three times a week and push up and sit up daily
I love your plan. I am doing a 8 week challenge with friends but I am going to do this also. I usually work out 5 – 6 days a week at home using dvds. (walking & kettle balls dvds)
I’m in! I used to be very active until I had my daughter and haven’t really gotten back into the habit. It’s been 2 years, so it’s about time I get back to it. My goal is to begin jogging again 3 times a week, and start doing yoga at least once w eek to get more flexible.
When my kids go back to school next week, I will either walk the golf course (weather permitting) or do a work-out DVD at home each weekday morning. Weekends will be tennis and going to the Y with the family.
My goal this month is to walk at least 3x a week! I am joining this 12 month challenge!
I plan on starting tai chi at home for January.
Exercise 5x per week (2 strength/3 cardio). Part of the cardio is to try and run at least 5 miles per week. Love the 12 month spread as it is not overwhelming to try and fit in a million things into one month. Looking forward to each month/focus!
I think these are all great, with the exception of going to bed earlier in the summer month of August. There’s so much to do outside during the long days! That one should be switched with a different month in my opinion.
I thought it would be great to gear up for the school year. But feel free to skip that month. 🙂
I love your plan! I am totally in! I’ve been trying to decide how I want to go about focusing on my health, but don’t think a traditional “diet-plan” is for me.
My exercise goal for January is walk 3 days/wk and yoga/stretching 2 days/wk.
Need to be healthy for me and my family
Great schedule! I’m starting a P90x3 challenge group on Monday where a group of us do it from home and hold each other accountable by posting in a fb group. I’m excited its only 30 min bc as a busy working mom, time has always been my excuse! There are more spots if anyone wants to join! Remember it takes 4 weeks to notice your body changing, 12 weeks before other start noticing your results!
I will begin my running and cross-training program again. I have taken a break for a “little too long!”
I so need this! It really helps when one must be accountable to others. My exercise goal for January is to strengthen my upper and lower body in preparation for a total knee replacement next month. (I can’t believe I just typed those words.) I plan to recover quickly and completely.
Yes I want to join your 12 months to a healthier you challenge. I plan on doing some sort of exercise on a daily basis. The days I don’t work the exercise time will be longer than the days I do work. But I will do some sort of exercises daily. I love to walk so I’m sure a walk a day will be a sure thing (as long as the weather permits).
I will join the healthier you challenge. My exercise goal is to work out 3 times a week doing pilates and zumba videos. I have a demanding 6 month old so I am setting the goal low so I have a better chance of meeting it. Good luck!
Love this! My goal for January is to do Zumba at least 3 times per week. I will try for more but want to make my goal reachable to start out! 🙂
Will walk/run 20-30 min, 5 days a week and strength/tone 3x a week. 🙂
I am joining the 12 Months to a Healthier You Challenge!!! Hmmm what exercise dvd could I do tonight??? I have a ton! I can’t get to my treadmill in the garage because it’s a mess right now! Doing some upgrading to home to put on market soon, so everything is in garage right now!
Back to the dvd maybe I will do one of my Insanity or P90x 🙂
Definitely, yes!!! My goal is just to be more consistently active – walking, pilates, whatever I can fit in after a day at school!!
My goal is to get in exercise atleast 4 days a week.
My goal is to try and get motivated !! I mean well then turn on the tv and watch all day..
Just exercising at least three times a week to get back into it.
I love this! Thank you so much much for this, I am going to commit to exercising for at least 4 times a week 30 minutes a day! I really want to get healthier in 2014!
i will join yu!! i have not exersized for a few years now and was looking for a doable option. this one is. so my goal is to walk 4 days a week and find a class that fits in with my work schedule for cardio/weights.
thank you for this!
I am planning to do some kind of cardio (brisk walking, Zumba, or kickboxing) at least 3 times per week.
I’m in. My goal is to do something physically active everyday, such as seasonal sports, running or just taking a short walk.
Joining. I plan on walking our dog at least 4 times a week as a minimum.
Would like to join in…first goal will be 3o minutes of exercise 3 times a week.
I am interested in joining your challenge.
Thanks for the inspiration.
This looks like a good challenge. I’m in! My plan is to exercise 4+ times a week. I typically plan for 5-6 days, but often something unexpected happens and I end up skipping the gym. I will be doing a combination of elliptical, treadmill, bicycle, weights, and a kickboxing class.
I’m in! I plan to run at least 4x a week and possibly throw in a workout or a Zumba class along the way. I have 2 sisters who are both Zumba instructors, needless to say they look great and healthy.
I’m in!! I have quite a bit of weight to lose which is going to be a slow process, but changes slowly is the only way I’ll get to my goal and keep it off. We are planning on joining the Y, so I want to start some group ex classes, but until then, my goal is to do a coule DVDs at home at least 4 days a week. I’m a work at home mom, so getting exercise into our routine is probably the hardest part of the process.
Yes! My goal is to get to the gym for this month at least twice a week. I will hopefully increase the amount by the end of the month. I’m planning on doing the spin class plus time in the gym doing more cardio.
I’m in! I could really use this!
My goal is to workout 4 times a week picking from Walking / Running, Water Aerobics , Zumba and Walk Away the Pounds. I need to mix it up I get bored easy.
My goal for January is 150 minutes of exercise per week.
Yes, I will join you!
I am joining.
Oh my goodness! I am so glad to see this challenge! Maybe if I feel like I’m accountable to others I will follow through. I have three children under the age of four and a full time job. I never take the time to take care of myself, but this is the year! I pledge to exercise at least three times a week for 30 minutes.
What a simple great idea – I plan to join!
This sounds like fun! I am definitely down to join!
While we cannot afford a membership, 7 years ago I signed up for a month of Jazzercise. While there, I learned that they have jobs that they trade free membership for. So, I signed up to be a babysitter one day a week for an hour and in return I received 6 years of free exercise that I love! Recently, I started working as a class manager which allows me to exercise free and keeps me committed to attending 3 days a week in exchange for attending classes as often as I want.
I’d encourage others to ask at your local centers – I have since learned of friends who clean fitness centers in exchange for free membership!
Sounds like a great plan!!
January goals:
CrossFit 3-4x a week
run 3x a week
Yoga 2x a week
My goal is to use my exercise bike at least three days a week. (That way, when I make it a 4th or 5th day, I’ll feel REALLY accomplished!)
Yes!!
January fitness goals : CrossFit 3x a week, run 3x a week. Also adding in some yoga for mobility!
I have not really exercised for years! Yes, years, so I am in! I have a stationary bike or a recumbent bike, so I plan on using that 5 x a week, and walking outside on nice days. I haven’t figured out how long on either of these to goals, but I will! Thank you!
I’m planning on walking for an hour at least 4 time.s a week . Working up to starting to run
I am going to join you! My exercise goal for January is to work out 6 days a week because I have a very significant amount of weight to lose this year. I live in Maine so I will mostly be on the tredmill and will use the alpha workout for p90x. :O)
As soon as I get the O.K. from my doctor (I just had reconstruction surgery after a bilateral mastectomy), I want to begin exercising. The best way I can think of to have fun with my kids and exercise without losing the already too few precious hours of sleep a mother gets…. is to do with my kids. So we will do the Nick Jr. Wii Fit game at LEAST 3 times a week, hopefully 4 or 5.
I would love to join this, it seems like something that is truly doable. I am pretty consistent about exercise, but my goal will be cardio exercise 5 days a week and yoga or other stretching 2 days a week. If that is not possible for whatever reason, I am allowing myself to skip one day. Thank you for the wonderful opportunity!
I’m in! 🙂
I am in! I will start with doing some sort of exercise 3-4 days a week.
My goal is to exercise 5 days/week.
My exercise for January is walking every morning and eventually start jogging again!!
Im in !!
I will be joining
I’m with you! I am doing Lindsay Brin’s Pretty Fierce: Weight Loss (www.momsintofitness.com) I LOVE Lindsay! She rocks!!! I’m looking forward to the monthly challenges to build on each other!
Love this plan!
My goal is to exercise 4 days per week this month
I’m in for the year. Exercise is something that I actually had quite a bit of success with last year, so mostly I want to maintain. I plan to run 3 times a week (I have my eye on my second half marathon in May) and then do a Jillian Michaels dvd 2 to 3 times a week. (I like Shred, NMTZ, and 6w6p) I will probably do some walking as well.
I’m in! Last year was horrible for my health. I’m ready to get healthy and hopefully lose weight in the process. I plan on walking on my treadmill and doing Just Dance Black-Eyed Peas with my daughter. Nothing like trying to keep up with a six year old dancing diva to make you sweat!
I want to continue my water aerobics classes at least 4 days a week and walk or dance on the other 3.
I always end up falling off the wagon because I make goals that are just too big, but my aim is to make it a permanent, life-long habit, so I’m keeping it very simple this time:
My goal is to exercise for a minimum of 20 minutes a session, and never take more than one day off. If I don’t feel like exercising, I tell myself that I can just do 20 minutes. I started doing this about 2 months ago, and it is working very well for me! I usually only end up taking a day or two off per week, as it turns out, AND my workouts are usually longer than my requisite 20 🙂
I was wondering what recommendations anyone would have for me regarding exercise. I have fibromyalgia and find that walking or running I can not tolerate. I fatigue very easily. I was thinking of swimming or water aerobics? I guess my goals for 2014 it to make better food choices daily.
Water aerobics for sure!
I’m in! We recently moved from a VERY tiny town to a slightly less tiny one that actually has a gym offering a daily exercise class. I recently joined and our group is starting the T25 workouts next week. My goal is to make it to 5 classes each week as well as 30 minutes of cardio at home every evening.
I’m so in for this challenge. I want to lose 20 pounds this year, last year I had a goal of 40 pounds but didn’t lose any weight. 🙁 I’m giving it a try again this year. I will be exercising 5 times a week. I love using my Sworkit app, helps me to get in all different kinds of exercise and tracks my progress for each week.
I’ll joining you! I’m started a monthly push up challenge this month! I need to get back in shape! Here is what I’m doing! http://missy-lifeofaworkingmom.blogspot.com/2014/01/new-year-new-workout-goals-monthly.html
I am ready to join. I need to lose about 60 lbs and be healthy
This month will be hard because I have physical limitations. I will have to try and come up with something.
You have inspired so many positive changes in my life and now another. Thank you. I would like to be healthier also. What a great idea blessed.
I’m joining everyone. I’m going to exercise (aerobics or walking/jogging) five days a week for 30 minutes each time. My days off will be Wednesdays & Sundays unless I have to move them around due to other obligations. Thanks for doing this.
I’ll join! Due to recent health issues, my exercise won’t be as strenuous as I like but I’m going to keep moving anyway. I’ll be doing crunches, planks, pushups and squats 6 days a week. Also alternating walking, DVDS, swimming, dancing and rollerskating for 30 minutes a day at least 4 days a week.
Sounds like a great idea, I think I’ll join you!
This sounds fun! (except for the part about lowering my caffeine intake – sorry! I love my coffee in the morning and my tea at night. 🙂 ) In January, I’d like to exercise 5X/week, barring illness. I’ve found recently, with our schedule changes, that putting on my workout clothes first thing in the morning helps me get exercise in more regularly. So I’m aiming to keep that up!
I’m in I really like the schedule for the whole year. My goal this month will be to work out at least 3 times a week doing some workout videos I have online. I will push for 4 days, but with my work schedule that might be hard.
I’m in! My goal for exercise is to start with 20 minutes of elliptical first thing in the morning/Monday through Friday.
I want to join! I plan to start with exercising at least 3 times a week for a half an hour. I’ll probably do more, but I don’t want to overwhelm myself with too big of a goal.
I am planning on getting to the Y three times a week for hour long classes and to walk at home with a video the other days.
Yes! Yoga 3x a week and cardio/weights 2x a week.
My goals this month are to restart my exercise routine. I was doing 30 Day Shred 6 days a week, and loving how I felt. I will start doing that again this month!
I plan to join!!!! My lifestyle right now is “survival mode”. I start with an exercise plan but then don’t carry through. Right now I want to say that I will start out walking at least 3x a week. I know that doesn’t sound like much. But I am actually on my feet throughout the day at any given time. I will try to do much more than the 3x , which is the couch to 5k plan….and I have done that before. So this is my goal for the month.
January exercise goal: Do XTrainFit exercise 5 days a week.
I love this approach- tackling a piece a month! I’m in. My goal is to start exercising regularly. For starters, I need something I feel I can attain which would be 4 30 minute workouts per week.
I’d love to join! My goal for January is to focus on my core and to start training for a half marathon this spring!
Yes – I like the idea of gradual change. I plan on doing 2 days weight training and 3 days of cardio.
I started Jillian Michaels Body Revolution yesterday!
I like this idea. My exercise goal is to exercise 3x’s a week either doing yoga or running on the treadmill. I actually hope to do more than 3 days but I wanted to start off slow since I was not doing anything at all previously.
I love this idea! I plan to stationary bike 3 times a week, abs 2 times a week and add another aerobic exercise 2 times a week. Anyone know of any free online workouts that don’t require weights or machines?
My fitness goal is to workout 5 day a week, minimum of 1 hour each day.
I am planning on doing a 30 minute Leslie Sansone video or 30 minutes on my treadmill, 4-5 days per week.
I really like this challenge! For the month of January, I’ll be walking, and doing yoga. I have doctor’s orders not to get my heart rate above 150. 🙂
Health is my main goal for 2014 also! I really slacked off in 2013 even getting outside to walk daily. My goal for January is walk our subdivision (3 miles) daily. Then in February I plan to start the Couch to 5k program! 🙂 Looking forward to this series!
This actually lines up very well with a lot of what I’d already decided I want to improve this year! So I’ll give it a shot. I’m keeping my exercise goal super-simple for now–just 1.5 hours a week, because that breaks down to about 15 minutes a day. And surely even someone who is terribly out of shape and hates exercising can manage that!
I’m in.
My goal for this month is to return to running regularly and reach 50 miles for the month. I am planning on following a 10k training.
I will join this challenge. I will begin working out at least 3 days a week and moving up to five after 2 weeks (elliptical, T25, pilates and using my new bike).
My goal is to exercise 5 times per week using Jillian Michaels DVD’s (cardio/weights) and pilates, at least until the weather permits me to run outside again. Thanks for the challenge!
I plan to run 5 days a week following my 25k training schedule, and do 2 days of weight lifting with my husband.
X
To do something for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
Monthly goals are a great idea. I know I want to run a half marathon in October and get more toned after having twins, but those goals are very general and leave me not knowing what to do on a day to day basis. My goal for January is to do at least 30 minutes of work outs from fitnessblender.com 3 days a week. Any extra will be running 3 miles (or more if I feel good) on days that weather/time allows. Thanks for the motivation!
January goal, work out at least 4 times a week. I am also going to sign up for my first 5k, which will be in May….plenty of time to prepare!
I am going to focus on the overall health as well. Try not to make my successes based on the scale but energy and just actually doing the things I said I would. So here it goes… Walk the dog or puppy 6 days a week (after dinner) and add more structured exercise 3-4 days (treadmill or video and stretching)
I’m in!! Yoga before school!
I’m joining you girls and considering you my accountability team! My goal this month is to exercise 3 times a week for at least 30 minutes!
I’m in!! I love the schedule for the year. Every year it seems that I make the same resolution to get fit & I never exercise!!!! This year WILL be different!! My exercise goal for January is to exercise 3x a week for at least 30 minutes & gradually work up to more days. I will do Jillian Michaels dvds, wii fit, or snowshoe (there is a lot of snow in Maine right now!!!)
My goal is to take three classes a week at the Y
Yes I would love to join the 12 month challenge.
I plan on doing yoga 1 x a week, and a exercise video 3 x’s a week.
Hopefully building on that
I’m in and glad to have all of you with me. My goal is 31 workouts in January!
I will run every other day. I will do 3 sets of 15 pushups daily. I will cross train one time a week!
I’m in! I always tend to slack off on my exercise in the wintertime because I don’t want to go outside in the cold to walk/run! So I started this past Monday with doing at least 30 mins 5 x a week…and it feels great!
I am planning to do crossfit three times per week. Very excited about having the support
Yes I am in! I am so glad I found your website.
January – I plan to jog 3xs a week and weights 3xs a week.
Im starting the C25k (couch to 5k) and signed up for a September race. I haven’t ran since gym class 15 years ago so this should be interesting!
Leanne Seppamaki-Wiebenga
I am in. The cardio part of exercise I already do 4 times a week – I have missed the mark on strength and core. My goal is to strength train at least 3 times per week and do the 30 day Plank Challenge
This is just what I needed this year!! Going to bed earlier yes – and exercise three times a week! Thank you for this motivation – this combined with prayer is just perfect!
To just get moving more and sitting less! Parking further away at the store.
My goal is to get to 10,000 steps a day 5/7 days and to exercise 5-6 times a week.
I am a Beachbody Coach and am running a few challenges like these! I love fitness resolutions! I am planning to do a variety of workouts this month including Turbo Kick, PiYo Strength, Focus T25, Hip Hop Abs, Turbo Jam, & Turbo Fire. I will be rotating one a day 6 days/week, drinking 100 oz of water, and of course drinking Shakeology every day for my daily dose of dense nutrition. 🙂
I plan on exercising 3-4 times a week at the gym.
Zumba once a week. I know it’s not much but, I don’t want to overdo it being pregnant and it is a great workout. I figure 1x a week makes more sense (going from little exercise) than something like 4 times a week.
Yes!
My exercise goal for January is to get to the gym 3x a week.
My big goal is to get down to 170 by my 40th birthday in September.
I’m reading up on your goal setting posts and writing out my plans. 🙂
I’m in! My goal is to ride my exercise bike for 15 minutes twice a day or at least 12 times a week. Also one work out video per week. I know it sounds lame but with 5 kids, it’s hard to ever find more then 15 minutes of free time!
Yes, count me in! I will exercise 5 times a week using the 5k Runner app and my mini-trampoline.
I would love to participate. Do we have to sign up for this, or is this going out to all MSM subscribers? I just want to be sure I don’t miss out on it! My exercise goal for January is to get back on schedule with my Tai Chi for arthritis program and to visit my local YMCA for Aquatics for Arthritis. I am supposed to do these things to keep my joints usable, but it is hard to stick to with a toddler. Maybe this program will keep me motivated, or at the very least reminded, of these goals.
This will be posted on the blog/emailed out to all subscribers every month. So glad you’ll be joining us!
I will be following BikiniBodyMommy’s plan plus adding 3 days of yoga a week.
i am interested
I plan on getting back to HIIT 6 times a week!
I like your book reading idea! I plan to read more and spend my time wisely. I also am planning to exercise five days per week. We can encourage each other!
I am in and plan to start a walking routine this month
I am very excited about this challenge! My January goal is to run for 30 minutes at least 3 times a week.
Bootcamp 3x a week, add on stretching routine and 15 minute walk every day, swimming 2x a week and cycling 2x a week
My goal is to exercise at least 3 times a week for 30 minutes.
I will do strength exercises 3 times a week and cardio 5 times. I was doing pretty good with exercising regularly before thanksgiving but haven’t anything since. This is the year to get healthier!
I’ve been slacking the last couple months so anything will be an improvement. But I’m shooting for 5 days a week–cardio/weights, running, and T25 and Insanity. Time to hit it hard!
I love T25 and Insanity Amy! Great job! Let me know if you want to join our support group for those workouts! 🙂
My Goal is to start Couch to 5K on 1/2/14. To weight train 3days a week.
Walk with my husband 2 days a week. (I already did this today)
I am going to stretch or do a yoga routine before bed.
Thank you for this challenge
I need all the help I can get, my day is spent caring for my husband, recently home from a 7 month stay I hospital facilities. He is not able to do things for himself, so my day is spent taking care of his needs, and trying to keep the house from falling down, running errands, fixing meals, and so forth. Help keep me from just losing it, healthwise. And maybe that will help me mentally from just losing it.
sounds good. love to join!!
I just had a baby and gained a lot of weight and I’m extremely out of shape. I plan to walk 30mins a day, 5x a week. In two months, I’d like to be starting an aerobic routine a couple days a week and continue walking 5x a week. Last year, before I got prego, I ran 5 miles a day and lost 40lbs in less than three months. I know I can do it…ive done this a few times before. 🙂 Good luck to all of you!
I’m in! Goal is to meet with a trainer once a week and workout 5 days a week.
I love this challenge. I like how it builds each month to be healthier. I challenge myself to 3 days of CrossFit, two days of yoga and another activity.
This looks like a great plan for 2014 and I’m way excited to join in!:) I’m going to make my January goal to exercise 3 times per week. I would like to start doing yoga but until I find the plan I want to use I’ll exercise on my elliptical.
I plan on a varied workout of 30 minutes a day. Right now I am following Christian Fitness.
My goal is a little bigger. It is to complete a 10-week T25 challenge with my small group 🙂
This is an awesome challenge and goes along with my plans for myself this year. So looking forward to getting started. My goal is to exercise 5 times a week and incorporate strength training.
Great motivator! I am going to be st the gym or exercising 3-4 days a week.
Great motivator! I am going to be st the gym or exercising 3-4 days a week.
I am joining and I plan on walking 5 days a week 🙂
Yes! My January exercise goal is to go to the gym 3 times a week
I’m in. My goal is to really train for a 5k properly and actually do C25k regularly instead of randomly. I’ve signed up to do one on Feb. 1st and I’d like to complete it in 30 mins or less.
I’d like to join the challenge. I have some health issues that prevent me from doing most exercise, but I can still walk. So that is my goal – to walk for 30 min, 3 times a week.
I love all the things on your schedule, but I wish the morning routine weren’t in June. Summertime is crazy and so non-routine with vacation and VBS, etc. I don’t think I can create a morning routine for that time of the year. I may just have to focus on that one on a different month.
Wow – so I am so up for this – I have been enjoying your blogs and I think it is great to have some encouragement as we endeavor to have a healthier year!
Look forward to future blogs.
Yes……
I’m excited for this! My goal is to walk 5x a week and slowly work my way into running.
Yes, I am ready for a change! Count me in. Looking forward to rreading Friday updates!
I love this & I’m definitely in!! My goal is to workout 4 times a wee. Hopefully 5 times a week by the end of January.
My goal for January is to move/exercise daily.
I’m in. I’m running a half marathon at the end of April so I will be running 4x a week and doing strength training about 2x a week.
Yes! I’ll join in. I’ve already committed to personal training for twelve months and signed up for a fitness (weight loss) challenge to start my year off! 🙂
I plan to incorporate exercise 3 days a week to start with.
I’m in. Walking 30 minutes per day x 5 days per week
Last year, 2013, I celebrated my first year of practicing yoga. This month I am going to focus on the exercise needed to master inversions (cool tricks like handstands). This includes going to yoga three times a week and spending ten minutes upside down every day! I can totally do it and so can you!
I’m in. I’m training for a half marathon at the end of April so I’m running 4x a week and doing some strength training 2x a week.
I plan to atleast walk after work or take the stairs after. I also want to start some stretching videos
I will be joining you all for this awesome challenge! I will exercise 3-4 times per week! I walked today! I plan on either doing the Jillian 30day shred, walk, or kickboxing!
Yes! I love this idea of breaking the year down into monthly goals. I plan on going to the Y to spin class, butts and guts and body pump. We have a membership but I find myself making excuses not to go. Not this month:)
I’m in! My goal is to walk on the treadmill for 30 minutes at least 4 days a week.
Yes! I love this idea of breaking the year down into monthly goals. I plan on going to the Y to spin class, butts and guts and body pump. We have a membership but I find myself making excuses not to go. Not this month:)
I plan to exercise 4X/week for 45 minutes. Looking forward to it!!
My goal is to exercise at least 5 days per week. I will use the Leslie Sansone walking dvds. I have had excellent results with those before.
I plan on walking 5 days a week. Today I did 2miles. I’m also prepping my food for a week at a time with healthy snacks.
My plan is as follows: Jan-3 days/week, Feb-4 days/week, Mar-5 days per week. I will be going to my gym with a buddy which should make it fun and provide some accountability! I love this challenge and the timing is perfect with my own 2014 health goals!!!!
Hi
I love this 12 month challenge. I am super excited.
My goal for january is to get 4 workouts in per week. Im an equestrian and ride 1-3 times per week and have equipment in my basement to supplement. If iget more than 4 great- if not 4 is definitely an attainable managable goal.
Thanks!
I plan to join in on the challenge. I want to workout at least 3x a week.
I plan to exercise 5 days a week. Eat less carbs after 3 pm.
I am in!! I am going to exercise at least 3 times a week. I already started today with a 2 mile walk!! Let’s do this!!!
I’m up for the Healthier You Challenge!
I’m planning to join the challenge! This month I plan to work out at least 3x a week and am doing the 30-day plank challenge.
I’ll join you in the challenge. I’m going for 4 days a week of t25. DVD is in the mail
My goal is to exercise 30 minutes a day. Anything – stretching, dancing to DVD, etc. Since I am out of shape and recovering from surgery, this is realistic and doable.
January Exercise goal for me will be to work out an average of 4 times per week.
I am in. I want to do walking for 30 min 5 times a week.
I am in…I am going to commit to 4 times a week doing a video. I would like to fit in 5 days, so on day five if I can fit in a walk or an activity with my family that would be awesome!
I would love to participate! My goal is to exercise 20 minutes at least 5 days a week.
Im in!!!! My goal is to run a 5k this year so I will be working on that.
Looking forward to losing the baby weight from my first and second
Babies… Getting healthier and gaining more confidence.
Ready to just be on track and live healthier. Got that gym membership and I refuse to let it go to waste. My goal is move for an hour a day 4-5 days a week.
My exercise goal is to run 2-3 times a week and do a strength training exercise 2 times a week
This sounds great!
I’m in! I am making it my goal to go to the gym three times a week and walk the dogs daily.
I am so excited about this challenge.
My January goal is to run at least 4 times per week.
Count me in!
Walk for 30 minutes a day
I am 7 months pregnant, so my exercise goal for January is to keep moving. I will keep doing prenatal yoga 3-4 times a week and walking at least 15 minutes 4-5 times a week.
My goal is to exercise at least 4 times a week.
Im in. My goal is to do the couch to 5k program min.of 3x week. 4 would be awesome.But I know 3 is doable. Thanks
I’m in! My goal is to get up 30 minutes earlier each morning to exercise on the elliptical 3 days a week, and do a heavy bag workout on 2-3 days.
I’m in.
I am so in- glad I found you while sitting on my bottom looking at pinterest & snacking 🙂
I am working on some health issues. I have recently had my gallbladder removed and have been working with a PT for pelvic issues from my BIG baby 2 years ago. Getting healthy is a must!! Besides my daily ab stabilization exercises I will- dance for 15 minutes daily with my 3 girls….. working up to half hour by the end of the month. Good luck to you all….. with the support of people going through the same thing this is VERY possible!
I’m joining the challenge! My January goal is to work out 4-5 times a week. Thanks 🙂
I plan on participating in the 12 month program and for now it is strength trainging and stretching and yoga for nerves and stress at least 3-4 times a week
Starting small.. Elliptical intervals twice a week and some other light exercise for at least 20 minutes
I will be alternating between the couch potatoe to 5k and this ‘muffin top’ exercise I found on Pinterest! 🙂
I am wanting to work out whether at the gym or home with my little ones…at least 4 days a week!!
Love this! I’ve been thinking I need some sort of a “life coach” to help me get things back on track. This is perfect, as it covers almost all of the areas of my life that need attention.
Sounds great! My initial goal will be to work out 4 days a week for at least 20 min. Hoping to increase to 30-40 min but want to make my goal doable at first!
I’m in! I definitely need to make my health a higher priority. I plan to walk 5,000 steps a day. And once achieved for 2 weeks, I’ll increase the steps by 1,000.
Tennis at least 3 times a week with my husband….hoping we can commit!
I plan to exercise three times a week consistently for at least 30min. I have been consistently joining a friend at the gym once a week for a month now and we are planning to up those meetings to at least twice a week.
My goal is to exercise 30 minutes at least 4x a week. I like a series on PBS called Classical Stretch, as well as the tread mill and Zumba or yoga.
Exercise was all ready on my goal list for January. I plan to start with 3 times a week working out for 3o minutes. Then gradually work my way up to 5 days a week by the end of the year.
You can definitely count me in! Unfortunately, My type 2 diabetes has gotten out of control and yesterday I saw the endocrinologist and just started insulin until I get it under control, 4 shots a day. Say a little prayer for me, I have a fear of sticking my finger, so my sweet husband is doing it for me. I can give myself the shots, crazy! I plan to go to the gym 3 times a week and start the P90X. Best luck to all!!!!
I have RA yet I will walk for 10 minutes at least 3 times a week.
I plan to attend Jazzercize 4 times a week, every week!
My January goal is to exercise (in some form) at least 4 times a week.
This sounds excellent!! What worthwhile goals. I have the P90X video series but I had no idea there was a workout schedule. How/where do I get that so I can join you for January?
I have four small kids and a farm so 5 days a week is unrealistic (and for the most part unnecessary after chasing everyone around!) but I can certainly do two, and sometimes three workouts each week.
This is great. The scale keeps creeping up so for January I will walk at least 3 times a week and do some strength training 2 times a week.
Lets do it
yes I want to participate. l want to be healthy.
This is great! I’m in too! Exercise goal for me in January is cardio 3 days a week and weight training 2 days a week for 30 minutes each.
I’m in! My goal for January is to complete Jillian Michaels 30 day shred.
I will start going to the gym at least 3 days a week and walking/pilates the other days. I have an active job that requires a lot of walking and lifting but need to start working on cardio and strength training.
Thank you for this 12 month plan! All the months look great! I’ve seen SO many challenges and plans with the new year BUT yours is a perfect fit for me:-),my plan of exercise for this month is 5 days a week minimum 30 minutes whether it be a DVD or walking or going to the gym(which would be longer than the 30 minutes)!!
cannot wait to start
I’m in! I’m going from no exercise and have a newborn so I’m shooting for 3 times a week.
Can’t wait to start this challenge
I’m in! This is one of my goals for this year anyway. My goal is to exercise at least 4 days a week. I have several exercise DVDs that I will be using at home. Then joining the YMCA later in the month.
My goal is a 30 minute workout 4x each week.
Yep starting Jan. 2. Already talked with hubby for him to watch the kids while I go. I have a membership at our local comm. centre. The gym isn’t much but it’s something (and it was cheap – $22/month). I will try three times a week to go there.. and do other stuff at home.. Jillian’s 30 day shred and treadmill plus a few challenges/pushups/sit ups.. Here’s hoping!
I am joining you for sure! Planning to exercise at least 4 times per week!
Yes – I need to get back to my boot camp program, six days a week
My January goal is to swim laps twice a week and do zumba 3 times a week
Yes, I’m in! My goal is to walk with Leslie Sansone 3x per week.
ooh great idea! I’m in!
I plan to do this challenge and do some kind of exercise at least 3 times a week since I currently don’t get any exercise in
This is great! I turned 40 in September and am pregnant with #3. I had gestational diabetes with the first two and my goal was to start an excercises program to help avoid it this time around. This is the motivation I need and will help me stay accountable. January’s goal is the first thing I need to focus on. My goal is to exercise 3 days a week for 30 minutes. I hope to increase this, but I need to start small since I have the 1st trimester symptoms to deal with. Thank you! Good luck to everyone!
I would love to join this challenge! My exercise goal is to continue working with my trainer 3 days a week but to kick up my cardio to 6 days a weeks instead of the 4 days her asks me to do.
I’m going to do P90 and then work up to P90X. My goal is a minimum of 4 days a week, but the program says 6 days. I get really OCD, on what the program says you should do….but 4 is absolutely realistic for me, plus its better than doing nothing, right?
This year is about getting out of “Survival Mode”! I’m working on the steps in your book and I really like it!
I look forward to following you, this year and simplifying my life!
Blessings!!
I love that you are doing this! I had Stage 3 Breast Cancer last year and have put on weight from the meds I take to keep cancer from returning. I have just started working out again, easy right now, just the bike and treadmill but will aim for 4-5 days a week cardio. I would like to build up my endurance so I can start running in a few month. Thanks for getting this together. I am excited!
I am in. My goal is 30 minute of exercise a day. Today is done! 🙂
I am going to try for 3days/wk
I want to eat healthier and do yoga and do at home exercising preferable to a cardio/toning tv show at least 3 times a week
Be more consist on workouts
What a great challenge. I just started putting myself first by losing weight. I have lost 10 pounds so far and would love to continue the momentum with this challenge. I plan on walking 6 days a week for 30 minutes a day. Thanks Crystal!!
I have tried so many times but this time I am going to be realistic!!
I am going to start with exercise 3x a week. Walking and workout videos.
I want to walk my dog a few miles six out of seven days a week (I already do this a few times, so it’s a minor improvement), and I’d like to start doing a 20-minute workout DVD five to six out of seven days a week, too 🙂
Love this!!!! Would love to join … Would like to commit to AT LEAST 4 days of exercise per week, at least 30 minutes per day. Thanks so much … This is great!!!!
Yes! My goal is to work out 5 days a week.
going to follow the 12 month healthier you challenge
I’m in!!!! This goes along with my goals I’ve been working on. This is more accountability for me!!!
I want to exercise 4-5 times a week. I have purchased the T25 program which is like a P90X/cross fit kinda thing but 25 minute routines. It has two 5 week programs to follow.
Thanks so much for doing this…once again just what I needed when I really needed something!!! 🙂 Although I missed out today, oops. Tomorrow is a new day!
I just finished T25! Great workout!
I plan on doing the 30 day squat challenge as well as doing Zumba twice a week at home.
I will join in. My exercise plan is 5 workouts each week. Walk run or DVDs of Jillian michaels or Bob Harper.
My goal is exercise 3x/week, scheduled on the calendar by Sunday before the work week starts so there is no excuse.
I am going to get to the gym 4 days a week. Great challenge!
This sounds great!!! My goal for January is to go our local gym at least 3 times a week- more if possible but i’ll be happy with three.
Awesome! I commit doing 6 days of T25.
Love the idea of a support group.
I would love to do this. My goal is to exercise 4 times a week.
Yes, I’m in. This is what I need!!! I will walk 3 times per week to start the first half of the month and 4 times per week the last half.
Can’t wait to get started, planning T25 3x per week plus activities for homeschool pe class!
I’m in. My goal for January is to exercise 5x/week for a minimum of 30 minutes.
Run 3 times a week and do upperbody workouts
Yes! I am in!!!! My exercise goal in January is to go to Curves 3x per week and do yoga or some other type of exercise 2x per week. This is my absolute minimum. I plan to exercise, at least walk, on these 2 days off if at all possible.
I’m in: 3 x a week for 30 minutes, plus a big hike at a fast pace.
Yes! !
I plan on working out 4 days a week. 3 runs and one HIIT workout.
Count me in! I plan on increasing to running four times a week and adding strength training. Not a fan of strength training but I know I need if I want to increase my race speed! Really excited for this challenge!
Awesome I’ll commit to doing T 25 6 days a week.
The the idea of a support group and introducing new healthy habits monthly.
My goal for January is to exercise for at least 30 minutes a day five times a week, plus “re” begin training for my first 5k:-)
I have the 30-day shred! I was already thinking of getting back in it – this is my push! Will plan to do it at least 5 times a week! Thanks!
Actually exercising 🙂 treadmill and some weight.
I love this goal! It’s good to just focus. I am doing P90X3 and T25 (one in the am and one in the PM) in January. I have 4 months until my 30th birthday and plan to kick it’s butt! I’m also running an online fitness challenge group if anyone is interested in extra support (facebook.com/cara4384 or email at caracammalleri@gmail.com) Good luck all!
I am so far behind I don’t even know wear to start. I’m feeling overwhelmed and beaten before I even get started. My mind is screaming to me that I can do it but my body is saying don’t. I need a positive role model to push the negative thoughts out of my way. I am so glad you posted this challenge today!!
Def want to join! My goal is 3x a week at least getting out to walk. Can’t wait to see all the progress!
Awesome! I want to do p90x again.
I want to join! My exercise goals for January are to exercise 5 days a week and to get back into my routine. I was doing good, then Ibroke my toe in October. It was a huge setback.
Yes! Definitely in….goal for January is to exercise 3 times a week…work up to 5 a week.
My goal is to do at LEAST 30 minutes of aerobic exercise – biking, walking… – and some light weights 5-6 x a week.
I am in!! I have been looking for a practical, less intimidating way to starting towards a path for a healthier life. My starting goal is 30 minutes four days a week. Good luck everyone!!
I’m in. My goal is to exercise 5 days of the week. Will be starting off easy and build up.
Joining!
My goal is to do something! I have a variety of exercise DVD’s that don’t get used. So my goal is to get started for real.
I am in!!! My goal for Jan is to work out 3 to 4 times a week.
This is just what I need! My goal is 4 days a week 40 minutes at the gym. I have a membership that I haven’t used for nearly 8 months. Its time to put it to good use!
This is just what I need! My goal is 4 days a week 40 minutes at the gym. I have a membership that I haven’t used for nearly 8 months. Its time to put it to good use!
My goal, at least for the first month (I have to work up to this…) is to chase my 11-month old son (just about to start walking!) around the house 15 minutes at least 3 times a day. Then I’ll re-evaluate and hopefully be up to adding more 🙂
My goal is to start 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week for first week, 20 minutes the second week, 25 minutes in the third and 30 in the fourth week. Mostly interval training on fitsugar.com/jillian michaels, you tube exercises and bodyrock.tv 🙂 Thanks for the encouragement !
I started at Curves in November. I am hoping to keep consistent and faithful to 5 times a week.
I would like to join in on the 12 Months to a Healthier ME Challenge! Great Monthly Schedule to take one part a month. I would like to exercise three times a week. I am thinking about trying the new program at Curves but if that does not work out I will Jillian Michael s exercise DVD’s.
My goal is to exercise for five days per week. I am doing Prevention’s Walk Your Butt Off Program. This is day 3, so far, so good!
My goal is to exercise 3 times per week. Sounds silly, but it’s a start and that’s what I need!
I definitely want to join in! My goal is to exercise at least 3 times per week to start!
OK I’ll give it a whirl — specifically doing circuit on Mon/Wed/Friday and walking
I am in day 38 of bikini body mommy challenge! Love it, something new everyday!
I’m joining in! I plan to exercise at least 20 minutes a day, 4 times a week, in January.
I can’t begin to tell you how happy I am for this challenge! I recently found out that I am gluten intolerant and seriously need to make some changes in my diet/lifestyle and this challenge is the perfect motivation to make those changes. 🙂
Thank you Crystal for putting this challenge together!
I like the ideas of each month a new topic, instead of the usual “get healthy” this year goal. I’m in. For me, I need to start slow because it’s been a while since I exercised consistently. To start, it’s going to be twice a week and go from there. My challenge is I get bored quickly with exercise dvds. I enjoy walking, but I’m dealing with a condition that causes nerve pain in my face and gets worse with cold, so I can’t walk until it warms up here. I am determined this year to start small and actually make the goals and take it one week at a time to get healthier. Thanks for the motivation and I look forward to a healthier me at the end of 2014. 🙂
Sheila, I think you are wise to start slow and steady to avoid injuries and burn out. I like variety too. I prefer to exercise outdoors, walking, hiking, biking, or kayaking, but the nerves in my teeth fire off painfully when I do in cold weather, so I can relate.
At a garage sale, I found a stand I could put my road bike in to convert it to a stationary bike. You might want to keep your eye out on craig’s list or something if you have a bike. My hubby also has a rowing machine I can use. I hate treadmills, but use them when I must, though at the gym I prefer the elliptical. It’s lower impact for my bad knee. I too use DVDs sparingly. There’s one routine a friend and I do together at her house. Otherwise, we go walking 1-2 times a week. I find I do much better at being consistent when I know someone is waiting for me to show up! 🙂 Their encouragement helps keep me motivated too.
Also, I have a friend who just started trying to embrace a healthier lifestyle. She doesn’t like walking outside during cooler/cold weather, plus she has some balance issues, so she was hesitant to walk on uneven paths or gravely roadways. She walks in a nearby mall instead, early, before it opens. Step by step, you can do this! Here’s to a healthier you. 🙂
I’ll join this challenge. My goal is to workout at least three times a week…using the weekend to catch up if need be. My hubby works out of town a lot, I’m a teacher headed back to the classroom next week, two boys and no family in town. I’m letting my health slide due to always being “on duty” with no one to help me or give me a break. My only chance to work out will be in the evenings after work while supper is cooking. There may be busy days, so I’m giving myself the grace I need and doubling up the workouts on the weekend.
I bought a rebounder back in June and believe it or not I have stuck with it! Now I just need to up my time on it.
Yes. I’m excited to start. I need to strengthen my legs and body by exercising regularly and organize more the house.
I plan on walking at least 30 mins 3 times a week for the month of January.
I am in!
My ‘exercise’ goal for January is to dance for fifteen minutes a day. It should be easy to just do it with that goal and it’s my starting point….I won’t stop myself if my body just keeps on moving!
Yes, my goal is to walk 5 miles/week and finish the year at 10 miles/week so let’s get this started!
I’m so glad you set up something like this! I plan to tag along all year. For the new year I already found a workout routine to try, so I’ll do that for January. I haven’t worked out in years & am considerable overweight, so working out at home is the only thing I am comfortable with. I’m following BeFitIn90 on YouTube because they have the whole 90 days already laid out with video playlists & rest days. It’s perfect for me because it’s completely free, limited weight usage, and it already incorporates rest days. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/user/BeFitin90
I’m in; these goals are goals I want to achieve anyway, and MSM is the place to get ‘er done! I plan on doing some home workout type stuff as I can, plus I have a 10 minute walk to the bus stop if I want to get to work (and then 10 minutes home too!) so that counts, right? 😉
Yes….my goal is to start moving….walking on treadmill (when we get it moved to our house)and a 24 min. DVD. Start with 3 days a week….it’s been awhile….so I have a long way to go. Build myself up.
Can wait to get healthy! I miss being athletic. This is the boost I’ve needed. The goal is to run a 5k and complete Insanity this year!
I have a FitBit that our insurance health incentive program gave me for completing challenges in 2013. My 2014 goal is 70,000 steps per week.
I’m a certified Jazzercise instructor and my goal for fitness in 2014 is to do something each day Monday through Friday for my franchise. I do pretty well 4 days a week but I really need to add that 5th day.
I would love to be a part of this! Good goals to tackle each month to stay motivated!
I plan on walking 30 mins 3 times a week for the month of January.
I’m in!
Yes….my goal is to start moving….walking on treadmill (when we get it moved to our house)and a 24 min. DVD.
Im in!
My goal is to lose about 10 lbs. and exercise at least 4 or 5 times a week for about 30 minutes through walking, elliptical, and possibly some Zumba classes (I’m horribly uncoordinated so we’ll see how long that lasts). I’m hoping to get pregnant again and be as healthy as possible both physically and mentally.
Yes, I will join you. I am signing up for an 8 week kickboxing class that will be at 10 am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Unfortunately I will be starting late because I will be out of town for the first 2 classes but I intend to get some walking in while I am gone.
I’m excited to join in. My goal is to exercise 5 days a week at home or at my gym. Wth at least 3 of those days being a 40/20 circuit with cardio and strengthening.
I really like this challenge, it seems very manageable. My exercise goals for January are to exercise 5x a week (Zumba, Pilates, and yoga). Thank you for this!
I’m definitely in! Thank you for doing this, Crystal! My goal for this month is to exercise five days a week for at least 15 minutes. Sounds small, but I must start somewhere!
These are things I need to focus on too! Very glad you put off caffeine until October though. 😉 I started the C25K treadmill program last March and have been pretty consistent with it, so my goals for that are still 3 days a week and keep increasing speed. What I need to improve on are the in between days. I try to get in at least 2 days of strength training, but I slack on this quite a bit. Thanks for a great challenge!
I like it! I’m in. My goal is to workout at least twenty minutes, five times a week.
I’m in, Couch to 5K, walk on off days.
I am determined to have 2014 be MY year. This is the year I put my health on the top of the list, which includes going primarily gluten free and introducing the paleo lifestyle. Your challenge fits right in! Day one is almost behind me and looking forward to day two.
My goal is to workout before work 4 days a week. Love this idea!
I am so excited for this challenge! I made goals to start running 3 times a week and walking 2 miles 5 times a week! I’m proud to say I did go running this morning and ran much farther than I thought I could too! I also walked for a mile this afternoon on the treadmill while my girls napped!
Sounds great to me! I started P90X again too! I started on Monday, so I finished day 3 today!
Love this! Hoping the check-in on Fridays will keep me accountable. My goal is exercise 3 times a week.
I’m in! I am sooo out of shape and have struggled with trying to implement a workout plan. I always start and then fall off the wagon after a couple of weeks. I suffer from chronic migraines and sometimes I’m just not feeling it. So my plan is to start small. VERY small. fifteen minutes a day for five days a week, then gradually increase by adding an extra five minutes per week, resulting in an extra five minutes per day at the end of each month. If I’m not feeling well, I will stretch and do yoga as my workout, I may not burn as many calories, but it should help me relax and will help my balance, posture, and circulation, which should overall help with my migraines in general. It will also help me stay on track since I won’t be skipping workouts. Good luck everyone! Let’s have a healthier 2014!
Joye, as a former migraine sufferer, I can sympathize with your struggle. Your brave determination is inspiring! I think you’ve hit on a key point and one of the main reasons that gyms are full to overflowing in January, and rather empty by March…people set goals that are too big, or too vague and then they fall short, get discouraged and give up. I worked in a gym for 4 years, I’ve seen it happen many times!
Starting small, with gradual increases sounds like a great plan. That is so doable, even if you only make it three days a week at first, then build up to five when you feel stronger, or add an extra day on a good week.
I’d suggest trying Pilates too, it can be less strenuous then Yoga, with many of the same benefits. Also, the deep core breathing practiced as part of this discipline could help with pain management (coping) and also reducing stress. Your right on track with your list of benefits. With consistency, you should see improvement overall, maybe even better sleep, which may help reduce your migraines. I know that lack of good sleep often made for a rough day for me. If your metabolism is consistently revved, you’ll get your calories burned over time. Good luck, I believe that 2014 will be your year for success! 🙂
I’m in! My goal is to excercise at least 4 days a week for 40 minutes. Mainly cardio with some weight lifting mixed in.
So thankful to be joining you on this journey! I am currently restarting P90x (last spring I got to beginning of phase 3 but put life in front of me time) as well. I am also a runner so I am trying to work out a training plan that includes getting ready for a spring 10 miler and a Triathlon. Love to have a group on this wellness journey!! Thanks for the encouragement!
I’m in! My exercise goal is cardio (running, elliptical or bike) 5 days a week, lift weights 3 x a week. I have a shoulder injury, if it improves enough I’ll try crossfit. I’m training for a 15k in March, so also need to work on my flexibility, possibly yoga,
I want to do this! my goal for this month is to work out 6 days a week, I will change it up between my Jillian Michaels dvd’s and walking, yoga, wii, etc. I love the layout for the year, I agree it works perfectly and gets everything in that I want to accomplish!!
yes! I’m in!! Been trying to use our treadmill. hoping to get up to more minutes and faster soon!! I’m VERY overweight and have back issues so is slow going right now.
I really need this so count me in! I have been out of the habit of exercising for so long. I am stating by doing the 7 Minute App at least 5 days a week. I want to supplement with neighborhood walks.
I’m going to work on getting to an exercise class at least 3 days a week and walk everyday for at least 30 minutes. Thank you for doing this challenge, it is right in line with my gooals for the new year!
I have 15 lbs of baby weight to lose before getting pregnant again. I got some Pilates and TTapp DVDs for Christmas and my goal is to do those consistently, plus walking at the gym. I’m a bit laid up with a toe injury right now, but I need to do as much as I can.
I’m in! And so looking forward to the little extra motivation.
My January exercise goal is to follow the P90X3 program for the 6 days a week the program sets out. It’s only 30 minutes a day for 6 days, so I think its completely manageable. Especially for January, when things are slower paced (at least, for me).
Awesome. If you end up wanting an accountability group to do it with, let me know. I start Monday!
I plan to work out a minimum of 5 times a week for at least 30 minutes each time. I also plan on getting my treadmill repaired and moving it into my room.
I’m in! I’ve consistently done two workouts a week for the better part of 2013. My goal is to add in a third workout each week. Gotta get rid of this baby weight!
I plan on exercising 5 times a week with a minimum of 30 minutes each time. I also plan to get my treadmill repaired, and moved into my bed room.
This sounds great!!! I decided this year instead of just making it a goal to “lose weight”, that I want to focus on improving my health numbers, no matter what the scale tells me, meaning that I want my cholesterol, blood pressure, A1C, etc. to be better than they were last year. So that kind of falls right in line with this – instead of just focusing on my weight, I am focusing on my overall health.
My goal for January is to start the 8 week beginning running program that my husband started last summer. He has had good results and I am praying that it will work for me as well!
My second baby is 4 1/2 months old, and I have about 8 lbs. to go before being back to pre-baby weight. I am luckier than most when it comes to losing the baby weight (since I’ve really done nothing so far to get rid of it!), but I need to tone back up. My goal for this month is to do the 30-Day Plank Challenge to get into a routine of exercise. Plus, it’s short, which is a necessity with 2 kids under 2!
What is the plank challenge please
where would one find this challenge?
http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-8ICDCXXG0ls/Ur5Zb-p0yYI/AAAAAAAADek/KRR7VDCVnlc/s1600/30dayPlank.png
I’m in!! I got off the exercise bandwagon cuz we started redoing a house, but now I am ready to get back to it. Goal: Go to the gym 4 days a week!! Thanks for the extra push
All the monthly challenges look great! My goal for January is to exercise 3 days a week for 30 minutes. I want to increase this but I have to start easy — last year I didn’t do too well.
I’m doing the same….my goal is three days a week and if I go extra during the week, I give myself a star. If I collect 10 stars I treat myself to a pedi!
Run 4 days per week and add yoga/pilates to 3 days per week
YES, I’m in. I have a chronic illness (more than one, actually) and my inactivity has led to weight gain. My goal is to exercise on my recumbent bike five days each week starting at ten minutes each day and adding on two minutes each week until I get to 30 minutes each day.
Hello Lynn –
I saw your comment and I am in the same boat as you. I have a very chronic illness that makes exercise difficult. I had lost some weight early last year, and have since gained it back. I have a recumbent bike that just seems to be collecting dust even though I know I need to use it. I really like your goal and plan. I think I am going to try to do the same thing and make a major focus on accomplishing that goal. Thank you for the idea!
Hi ladies! I too have a chronic illness that took me out of a fun 3xweek exercise class last January. I’ve been fortunate to never have had a weight issue until just the past few years. It’s discouraging when activity hurts. I have an ongoing issue with fractured ribs and too much activity is not good. However, the recumbent bike is great. Been using it off and on since September. My goal for the month however will be to continuously use 5-6 x week. And keep it up! Slowly, upping resistance. I’m already doing 40-60 minutes at a time but want to maximize calorie burn. Good luck with your goals this month!
I love this!! This is what I need! I struggled with wanting this all of 2013 and know I needed a different strategy for 2014! Still working on how to go about it. I HATE excerising because I feel like I don’t know what i’m doing and if I’m going to take the time I want to see results. There’s no budget for the gym and none close by and DVD’s just don’t work for me. Sooo my husband and I are still seeing what type of plan might work. But all 12 of the things you listed are goals in my head!!!
I know the feeling! I hate traditional exercise — with the exception of yoga, but I’m not sure I even do it right. What works best for me is putting on music and dancing like a nut, and giving myself permission to take long, brisk walks ALONE with no one to keep me from my thoughts or music, or to take me off my pace. I really enjoy both activities and they don’t seem like exercise, so it isn’t as frustrating if I don’t see results as quickly as I’m hoping for.
I love Crossfit. Find a good one with functional fitness type level. The friends I’ve made have helped me through a lot this year. I am stronger than ever, the trainers are great. I never could stick to exercise but I’ve been doing this for 10months and I still get excited to go.
Marie and Lauren, many people feel as you do. You’re not alone. It’s hard to know where, and how, to start, and of course you don’t want to injure yourself in the process!
Six years ago, as someone with prior injuries who had never stepped foot in a gym before (and couldn’t afford to for a long while), for me it was intimidating and worrisome to start. The important thing though is just to START. Now, not on Monday, or the next week. These days, I’m a gym rat, and a health coach, who did my first 5K (3.1 mile run) almost two years ago, and ran/walked my first half marathon over a year ago. Never saw that coming! Don’t worry/obsess about the numbers on the scale; plateaus and slip ups happen. Your waist to hip measurement is more important, as are your other inner health numbers. Start fresh each day with renewed determination, consistency is the key. Watch your bad numbers decrease (like LDL cholesterol) while your good numbers (like HDL) increase, that’s inspiring and helps maintain your motivation. Looser clothing does too. 🙂
Set small achievable, measurable goals and then build on them as your confidence, ability and enthusiasm grows. You may never love to exercise traditionally, and that’s ok, but there are many ways to be and stay active. Explore some. For instance, I rediscovered a love of both bike riding and kayaking. It’s fun to find activities you can do with others too. Sure beats sitting at an all you can eat buffet, or being a couch potato! We were meant to move and be active. We feel amazingly better, and have more energy (and less illness-I haven’t had a bad cold in over 4 years!) when we are.
Ask your Doctor for help, look for free community classes, read books and blogs by known authorities in the health and fitness industry, or ask a fit friend to show or teach you some of the things they do. I had a very sedentary, middle aged friend who just started exercising last fall by walking in the mall every other day, slowly increasing her mileage. She asked me to help her find a good training program to safely and adequately get her prepared to walk her first half marathon this spring, then asked if I’d do it with her. She’s beginning to love exercising and how she feels.
Sounds like Lauren is on the right path for her. Walking is one of the best things we can do. It is easier on the joints for one thing. Some studies show it to be as effective as anti depressants for increasing seretonin and dopamine levels (good mood hormones) and walking can increase our aerobic/cardio capacity while decreasing bad things, like too much cortisol (a stress hormone).
If you like dancing, I’d highly suggest trying out a Zumba class! Many churches offer it, some are free or have a small drop in fee. No gym membership required and many gyms have a special drop in or class package guest fee. FYI: Everyone is too busy looking at their own feet to see how coordinated yours are. 😉 It’s an exercise class based on dance, but not a dance class, so you don’t have to know every step perfectly. The point is just to get moving! You will drink a LOT of water and probably sweat a bunch. If you have knee/joint issues, you can modify the workout to a lower intensity, just ask the instructor to demonstrate. The hour flies by fast too, and best of all, it’s FUN! 🙂
There are awesome videos of exercises of all kinds on youtube. I love kettlebells! They cover cardio and weight training all at once, and there are lots of videos on youtube.
I’m excited to start! My January exercise goal is to go to water aerobics 3x per week, and walk 2x per week.
I really like this challenge and the schedule for the year. Makes it easier than trying to change everything at once. I’m in.
For January my goal is to exercise four days a week. I will push for 5, but I believe I can get the four in without feeling overwhelmed.
Thanks!
Yes – my goal is to do Crossfit at least 3 times per week and do some sort of other exercise with my work provided gym membership the other days (yoga, ME, cycling, etc.)