As people all over the nation rise and shine this New Year's Day, it is for most, a time of reflection and quiet excitement for the year ahead.

At the top of the list for a high number of people is taking back control of health and lifestyle, for weight loss, new fitness goals and a better and improved new year moving forward.

It is also a busy time for gyms and fitness centres as people flock to join and start their new fitness journey.

Rani Dunn of ‘Fitness Shed’ in Nyngan said the beginning of a new year is always exciting as new people step through the door keen to get to work.

“At this time of year, we usually see an increase of new members wanting to get active and join for a gym membership.

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Rani Dunn with a group of members at The Fitness Shed in Nyngan - Image courtesy The Fitness Shed

New members usually range in ages from 50 plus all the way down to 17-year-olds wanting to get a kick start into the new year.

“Some years I have found people joining but not using the gym as frequently as they have said initially, to help with this, especially if they have never used equipment or programs before in a gym, I like to give people a run-down of the equipment so they can feel confident to get started with what they want to achieve.

The Fitness Shed run club in Nyngan.

Rani offers the following advice, “getting there is the hardest part, once you get yourself to the gym and have a program to follow it is easier to keep motivated and determined to go,” she said.

“I have found, and even for myself, I love a group environment especially one that is friendly and non-judgemental.

Daniel Thornton of Flexible Fitness Solutions - Image supplied.

“At the start of a new year, people often think about what they want to do differently – like breaking bad habits, improving their physical and mental health, or finding a better work-life balance says Daniel Thornton of Flexible Fitness Solutions.

“Things like fitness, nutrition, and mental health are all a big part of that, so we see more people jump on the New Year’s resolution band wagon and an increase in membership during this time.

“We love that our gym caters to clients of all ages and abilities, including the disabled community, so everyone has access to a fitness journey if they wish.

“Many clients see great results when they start in the new year, if they follow the program and nutrition plan and stick to it, they will see progress.

“Working one-on-one with clients for both fitness and nutrition, motivating and holding them accountable makes a big difference.

According to Daniel there are a few things that may help people ease in gym use and staying on track for their fitness goals.

“Firstly, make sure you’re serious about making a change. If you’ve trained before, you know how great you feel afterwards and how it positively impacts your mental health, but you need to be fully committed.

“Having support helps, whether it’s from friends or couples working together – this can really make a difference.

“Consistency is key, so aim for at least two to three gym sessions a week along with a solid nutrition plan, which we can help with.

“Stay positive and keep reminding yourself why you want to do this. It’s not going to be one of those New Year’s resolutions you forget in a month – it’s a life change,” he said.

Whether it’s off to the gym, joining a run club, cycling, swimming, dancing or chair yoga in your home, the key takeaway is consistency and the best advice – JUST START.

Happy new year to all our Western Plains readers!!