Fuel Your 2015 Fitness Success with the Power of Social Media

Yes, it’s that time of year again. The New Year is a time where people resolve to get in shape, work out and eat healthier. Some commit by hiring a personal trainer to get them started, while others opt to workout with a friend to hold them accountable. Ultimately though, most people give up.

In today’s fast-paced society, it’s tough to stay focused on health and fitness goals without constant in-your-face support and reinforcement.

This could be why so many people committing to staying on track look to social media for positive motivation and support. Another bonus, it’s free.

Social media platforms provide endless ways to motivate you this resolution season. There are groups, chats and apps (many free), and all designed to help you stay on a clear path to a healthier you.

Research and experts agree.

Between Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest, there are many options to connect with similar individuals, discuss challenges and share stories of success and perseverance. According to research conducted and reported by Medical News Today, social media platforms provide a complex reinforcement system for people who are generally more anxious and socially insecure to begin with.

The reward system offered by social media in the form of “likes” and comments feeds an addictive behavior for people who are already more inclined to require constant reinforcement.“Social media has a great opportunity to influence our health and fitness habits for the better,” said NASM-CPT and Content Strategist, Stacey Penney. “The power behind this approach is that it allows people with similar goals for a healthy lifestyle connect in a supportive or even competitive environment. This ongoing support can help someone stick to their goals when a commitment to change may waiver.”

But, be mindful, there can be a downside.

While social media can be a beacon of positivity for people seeking a healthier lifestyle, as with many things in life, there can be a negative side. Due to the highly visual nature of platforms like Facebook, Pinterest and Instagram, some people may develop unhealthy behaviors or obsessions about their bodies and exercise. Constantly comparing photos, workouts and calories burned can become an unhealthy addiction for some so be mindful and always consult a doctor before trying anything too extreme or unfamiliar.

For example, a story last year on “Good Morning America” discussed the rise in new body image terms like “thigh gap,” a term used to describe leg thinness. Prior to social media, this was a virtually unknown term and certainly not something the average person aspired to have.

Additionally, posts about losing weight quickly or gaining immediate results should be taken with a grain of salt.

If it appears too good to be true, it is and don’t let it discourage you. Stay focused, build a trusted group of social supporters and and rely on your own friends and family to fuel your fitness passion.

You are part of a bigger picture so pay it forward.

When it comes to health and fitness motivation and social media, the opportunities can be endless. Researchers with Medical News Today believe that this viral spread of happiness is so strong that if magnified could trigger an epidemic of well being around the world. Pretty amazing when you stop to think about it.

So, share your successes, post your challenges and pay it forward. Comment, post and “like” content from others trying just as hard as you are to stick to their own health and fitness resolutions. You’ll find yourself with new friends, a strong support system and healthier you for many years to come.