Runners start 2020 with new commitments

JACKSON, Tenn. — Runners got a jumpstart on their New Year’s resolutions on Wednesday’s brisk New Year’s Day.

“We have a wide range of abilities,” said Lift Wellness Center Director Miki Martin. “We have first-time runners. We have elite runners, people who are used to going out and racing and trying to win the medal.”

“I spoke to one lady this morning, and she said she hopes to kick off her new year in a way where she’ll be consistent with coming to the Lift and exercising on a regular basis,” Martin said.

But for many people, this 5K race was a start to a commitment they hope to continue throughout the rest of the year.

“We try to encourage people to come in and start slowly,” Martin said. “Start with something they enjoy. Just make it a habit. It usually takes 21 days to make a habit, and once you do, it becomes something that actually you’re going to miss if you don’t do it.”

And there are a few ways local gyms will help you get going.

“Places like us, we still see a lot people who come in and want to get on that cardio equipment. Other big trends people love to participate in, especially here at Lift, are group fitness classes. They love to participate in anything that uses a fitness tracker that tracks what they’re doing, how many calories they’re burning,” Martin said.

Martin says that those who do make a fitness goal for the new year are encouraged to start slowly to avoid burning out or injuring themselves.