Beyond the New Year’s Resolution: Sustainable Fitness Habits for 2026

Every January, the world collectively decides it’s time for a fresh start. New planners, new goals, new matching workout sets… and of course, the classic New Year’s resolution. For many of us, we set our fitness goals based on what we’re told to do which can feel overwhelming. How can we make 2026 goals different and make them ones you will actually stick to? For me, it’s all about moving beyond the New Year, New Me mindset and creating sustainable fitness habits and goals that keep you feeling strong, motivated and that you’ll stick to all year long.

Start Small 

I always encourage setting small achievable goals when kickstarting your fitness routine, which is particularly important at the start of a New Year. Think of your small habits being the foundation blocks for your fitness journey, which become easier to repeat and to build on in time.

Think:

• A non-negotiable walk outside – fresh air is key
• 10 minutes of movement
• A quick workout circuit that fits into a busy morning

Build an Environment That Supports You

Set yourself up for success by creating a space and routine that naturally encourages movement and healthy habits. By shaping your environment, consistency feels effortless.

• Keep your workout mat or equipment visible – seeing it is a simple reminder to move
• Lay out your workout clothes the night before – make it easy to get started
• Have quick, reliable workouts ready – go to circuits for days when time is tight
• Keep a water bottle nearby – staying hydrated supports energy, focus, and recovery
• I find that if you keep track of your workouts it is so motivating to look back at how far you have come so make a note!

Choose Workouts You Genuinely Like

If you’re forcing yourself to do workouts that are on trend but aren’t for you, you aren’t likely going to stick to them! Having a variety of workouts planned and ready to go won’t just make you feel good, it will encourage you to continue building on your goals for strength and longevity:

• Outdoor movement (walking)
• Strength circuits – quick 30 min sessions with just a set of dumbbells
• Low-impact routines & mobility stretches
• Yoga and pilates
  

Focus on How You Want to Feel

You might be surprised to hear that I don’t measure my fitness by the scales. In fact, I don’t own any! Instead, I focus on how my body feels and how my diet supports me. For women in midlife, letting go of external pressures and tuning into how your body responds can make a huge difference.

Rather than setting goals based on numbers, try setting fitness goals that prioritise how your mind and body feel. This approach naturally boosts motivation, keeps progress sustainable, and removes the stress of chasing a distant finish line. Remember, fitness isn’t a race – everyone’s journey looks different, and our bodies respond in unique ways. 

• “I want more energy”
• “I want to feel clear-headed”
• “I want to feel strong”
• “I want to sleep better”

Make Routines That Fit Your Real Life

When fitness fits your lifestyle, it becomes part of your daily routine. Your daily exercise habits should be something that you look forward to and blend into your day! Think ahead where possible on your availability, and time that you can set aside to exercise:

• Shorter workouts during busy weeks
• Longer sessions when you have time
• Movement snacking – tiny bursts of activity throughout the day
• Flexible schedules instead of rigid ones

Track Your Progress

Tracking can be motivating – as long as it’s healthy and supportive. Try noticing changes like:

• Better mood and more energy
• More strength during circuits – you’re lifting heavier weights
• More ease in daily movement – everything feels easier to do
• Increased consistency – you don’t even think about it, you just do it
• Better posture or mobility – no more aches or pains

Final Thought: 

Giving yourself grace. Life will get busy. You’ll miss days. Plans will shift. Motivation will dip. None of that means you’re failing! Perfection is unrealistic, effort is what actually creates change and lasting habits. Think long term – your health and fitness is a journey, not a resolution. When you let go of the pressure to reinvent yourself every January, you will be surprised at how much easier it is to set your sights on something much better: steady, supportive habits that last long after the excitement of the new year and continue building your strength.

Here’s to a 2026 filled with consistency and movement that fits your life – not the other way around. Start small (take a look at my new ten minute series!), build slowly and stick with it.

As always, any questions please do get in touch. 

Caroline x