Every January, gyms fill up with people feeling motivated, hopeful and ready to make a change. New trainers, new routines, new goals. But by February, reality often kicks in, routines slip and many people quietly give up on their fitness goals.
From what we see on the gym floor every year, people don’t usually quit because they’ve lost motivation. More often, they stop because they feel guilty when workouts are missed, routines aren’t perfect or life gets in the way and assume that means they’ve failed.
If you’ve joined a gym as part of a New Year’s resolution, you’re not alone. The good news? Giving up isn’t inevitable. With the right mindset and a few simple strategies, you can stick to your fitness goals and keep moving towards the healthier version of you.
1. Set realistic targets (and forget perfection)
One of the biggest reasons people give up is aiming too high, too fast. Training every day, cutting out all treats or expecting instant results can quickly lead to burnout. New routines are rarely perfect, and that’s completely normal.
Instead, focus on small, achievable goals:
- Aim to work out 2–3 times a week to start with
- Celebrate turning up, not just smashing workouts
- A 20-minute workout is better than no workout
- Remember: progress beats perfection
Missing a session or having an off-plan day doesn’t undo your progress. What matters most is what you do consistently over time, not whether every week is flawless.
2. Make fitness fit your lifestyle
If your workouts don’t fit into your daily routine, they won’t last. Choose times that genuinely work for you, whether that’s early mornings, lunchtime sessions or evenings after work. Think about:
- How long you can realistically train for
- What type of exercise you actually enjoy
- Removing barriers (have your gym bag ready and plan workouts in advance)
A routine that fits around real life is far more effective than a “perfect” plan you can’t stick to. Fitness shouldn’t feel like a punishment – it should feel doable.
3. Accept that some weeks won’t go to plan
Here’s something many people don’t expect: there will be weeks where workouts are missed, energy is low or plans change – that doesn’t mean you’re off track.
Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on keeping some momentum going during those weeks:
- Show up and do something, even if it’s short
- Give yourself permission to scale things back when needed
- Remind yourself why you started
- Focus on how good you’ll feel afterwards
Often, the hardest part is just walking through the gym doors.
4. Don’t go it alone
Having support makes a huge difference. Whether it’s a workout buddy, a class you enjoy or guidance from a personal trainer, accountability helps keep you on track.
Around 90% of people say choosing the right personal trainer was life-changing – not because they were pushed harder, but because they had someone to guide them, adapt plans when life got busy and help them stay consistent without guilt.
We see it all the time. Members who stick with it long-term are the ones who feel supported, welcomed and encouraged. Fitness can be easier (and more enjoyable) when you’re not doing it alone.
5. Measure success beyond the scales
Weight is only one small part of the picture. If you rely solely on the scales, it’s easy to feel discouraged, especially when effort doesn’t immediately show up as a number change. Try noticing other wins:
- More energy during the day
- Feeling stronger or fitter
- Improved mood and confidence
- Sleeping better
These changes often show up long before physical results do.
Join The Resolution Revolution at Absolutely Fitness
This January, we’re making it easier to stick to your fitness goals with our Resolution Revolution offer.*
- Join an Absolutely Fitness gym in Bracknell, Langley or Slough in January
- Work out just eight times during January
- Get the following month completely FREE
The Resolution Revolution is designed to reward consistency, not perfection. It’s about building simple habits, allowing room for real life and staying engaged even when workouts aren’t flawless.
If you’re ready to stop giving up and start building a routine that actually lasts, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Join now and let’s make this the year you don’t quit.
* Offer available to members who join in January 2026 only.