January is over, but don’t give up. Do Fit February!

JANUARY is over. The novelty of a New Year's resolution may already be wearing thin, or perhaps you have found your new long-term way to stay active.

If you fall into category A, there is no need to fret – aim for a Fit February. You are far from alone in keeping that enthusasism alive as the days remain and the evenings remain dark and cold.

Statistically, 80 per cent of New Year's resolutions fall by the wayside by February. If you are within the other 20 per cent, a few tweaks to your new found routine can make it feel fresh and new all over again.

One handy tip is to have a physical schedule for your workouts.

Think of your fitness as you would your job – if you have a meeting, you put it on your calendar as non-negotiable and the same should go for your workouts.

Physical activity and staying fit is about discipline as much as anything which means planning in advance also helps.

There is no harm in deciding to go out running on a whim when you have the free time, but it is not ideal if you have any ambitions of maintaining a long-term routine.

Whether you're into group fitness or personal training sessions are more your pace, plan and sign up for them in advance.

Gyms in Sligo town and community centres up and down the county are buzzing with classes just waiting for you to sign up and get in on the act.

Many people may also take up something as simple as walking every day. The problem with walking is it can become mundane without a visible record of your progress. Having your daily numbers on front of you through a phone app or a watch can be a great means of keeping motivated as you learn exactly what step count you are capable of achieving every day.

To settle into a routine, many people start out on their own.

It can be a lonely experience on those dark evenings – that is when it is worth considering if your social circle includes a potential gym or running buddy to join your journey. Try to find someone you know who pushes you to be your best and give your all in the gym.

Once you find that person, plan to meet for workouts, group classes or runs. You are far less likely to make an excuse and ditch the gym for the day if you have someone that is depending on you to show up.

If those tips are carrying you through Fit February, it may be worth considering taking things up a notch.

5k, 10k and park runs have all been making a comeback lately. No matter your level of ability – or indeed if you prefer to walk – the communities at any local runs are full of enthusastic and encouraging people who will make you feel welcome and give you the motivation to return to the next meet.

Keeping motivated isn't all about the workout. It is also about the reward.

If you have planned the schedule, don't be afraid to include the ultimate aim of a reason to treat yourself.

Pencil in a trip away, a night out or even just a day where you can indulge in some of your favourite food – having that reward to aim for at the end of a schedule makes the effort all the more worth it.