BOWLING GREEN, Ky. — A friendly face at the Bowling Green Athletic Club, Randy Richardson has worked here since the beginning of 2003. It’s a believable fact as he walks through the gym, greeting many who exercise. 

What You Need To Know

  • 55% of New Year’s resolutions focus on physical activity

  • COVID-19 took a toll on people’s physical and mental health, but having a social place to exercise can help

  • Richardson says it’s best to create a lifestyle change to keep a resolution
 

As we embark on a new calendar year, many Kentuckians will head to gyms to work toward their New Year's resolution. A poll conducted by Ipsos, a research and consulting firm, found out of those who made a New Year’s resolution in 2020, 55% of them focused on physical activity. Richardson agrees with the value of exercise.

He says that while the pandemic took a toll on people’s physical and mental health, having a social place to work out can help reverse that trend. “Network and meeting people that are in the same goal as you are, you can make lasting friendships,” Richardson said. 

And as we return to a more pre-pandemic world, fitness trends are changing. According to the American College of Sports Medicine, strength training with free weights and body weight training are the predicted top trends to stay fit in 2023. Richardson says that people are dismantling their home gyms and coming back into a public workout environment. 

“Just because they kind of feed off everyone’s energy when they’re working out and love the classes,” Richardson said.  

And for those embarking on a new fitness journey in the new year, Richardson shared some tips. First, set reasonable goals and develop a plan. 

“It generally takes a person 21 days to develop a habit so if they just stick to that routine and develop a routine, they’re generally more successful,” Richardson said. 

He also said having support groups and accountability partners are helpful, including group fitness classes. Celebrating minor victories along the way is also helpful. And, in order to keep the resolutions as a long-term change, Richardson stressed it’s best to create a lifestyle change. 

“Since classes are scheduled, it’s pretty easy for people to keep that schedule and go to class each day and usually, you’ll meet people on that journey,” Richardson said.  

Wearable devices, fitness programs for older adults, and functional fitness training are also among the top fitness trends for 2023. 

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