Здоровый образ жизни

Make 2025 Your Healthiest Year Yet: Expert Tips from Health Coach Will Bruce

29 января 2025

As we start the new year, many of us have taken some time to think about our goals and resolutions. According to a Pew Research Center study, 30% of Americans will make at least one New Year’s resolution, with 79% of those resolutions focusing on health. However, it’s no secret that sticking to resolutions can be challenging as the weeks and months roll by.

That’s why setting realistic health resolutions is key. By creating achievable goals, you’re more likely to establish lasting habits that lead to long-term wellness. Providence Health Plan’s (PHP) Health Coach Will Bruce is here to share his expert advice on crafting sustainable fitness goals and demonstrate simple exercises to help you get started.

Why Realistic Resolutions Matter

Realistic resolutions can make all the difference between success and discouragement. Overly ambitious goals often lead to frustration or feelings of failure, whereas smaller, more manageable changes encourage steady progress. Will explains, “It’s important to ensure you have the time, energy, and resources to dedicate to your resolutions. If a goal feels overwhelming, start smaller and build from there.”

For example, instead of committing to a major lifestyle overhaul, consider incorporating manageable habits into your daily routine. Adding more vegetables to each meal or scheduling just 15 minutes of physical activity each day are great starting points. Over time, these small changes can add up to significant health improvements.

Tips for Achieving Realistic Health Resolutions

Here are Will’s two essential tips for success:

• Start Small: Focus on manageable habits that fit into your daily routine. For instance, instead of saying, “I’ll run five miles every day,” start with, “I’ll take a 15-minute walk during my lunch break.” This approach prevents burnout and sets you up for consistent progress.

• Celebrate Progress: Keep track of your achievements and celebrate even the smallest victories. Whether it’s adding an extra minute to your plank or trying a new vegetable, recognizing your efforts can help maintain motivation throughout the year.

Setting Realistic Goals

When setting health resolutions, keep them specific, measurable, and achievable. Instead of a vague goal like, “I want to lose weight,” reframe it as, “I will incorporate 10 minutes of walking into my daily routine.” Taking a holistic approach to health is also essential.

Physical activity and mental wellness go hand in hand, and PHP offers tools and resources to support both areas. Members can access wellness programs, mental health resources, and health coaching services to make achieving their goals easier.

Staying Motivated

Staying motivated throughout the year requires support and accountability. Share your successes with your health coach, family, or friends, and surround yourself with like-minded individuals. PHP’s health coaching services can help you stay on track and make sustainable changes. Additionally, many health plans include perks like gym memberships or group fitness class discounts—check your plan to see what’s available.

If you’re a PHP member, check out our health coaching program. PHP offers two health coaching program tracks, depending on the nature of your goals and desired level of coaching support throughout the program. Both program tracks are offered at no cost to eligible PHP members.

Visit https://www.providencehealthplan.com/member-perks/health-coaching to learn more.