Sticking to your fitness goals in 2026

PARK CITY — 2026 begins tomorrow, and one of the most popular New Year's resolutions is getting into shape. But experts say unrealistic expectations often lead to burnout.

"It's really common to get really ambitious this time of year, and to go really hard and try to start out really strong, and then it tends to fade away because we set these really lofty goals, and then we can't maintain them," said Alora Bonner, an exercise physiologist at Intermountain Park City Hospital.

Bonner said consistency matters more than intensity for long-term success.

"Sometimes we feel like, 'Oh, if I'm not drenched with sweat after my workout, if I'm not super sore after my workout, it doesn't count.' And that's just not true," she said. "Maybe you can get 20 minutes in, and maybe you can get five minutes in; and that adds up throughout the week, throughout the month, and throughout the year. Every little bit helps."

Current guidelines recommend approximately 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise each week, along with two days of resistance training.

"And a lot of time, preventing injury comes down to building strength," Bonner said.

Bonner suggested doing squats to help with strength, and exercises to work on balance. "Practicing standing on one foot can be good, even practicing with your eyes closed, which is an added challenge."

If you can't get to the gym, Bonner said there are exercises you can do at home. You can use everyday items like chairs and countertops for exercises, such as modified push-ups. Even those small amounts of movement can add up to real results over time — helping you have a healthy 2026.

"Take it one day at a time," Bonner said. "Don't be too hard on yourself, and give yourself grace."

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