Fitness expert offers tips on sticking to New Year’s resolutions

LEXINGTON, Ky. — It’s a new year, and for many, it may the first day to start their resolutions. A popular resolution may be getting into better shape or something fitness-related. 

Most of the people at Kentucky Gym’s two locations in the Lexington and Nicholasville are members. But like most gyms this time of year, they see more people than usual, said Bryan McNee, owner of both locations.

“We do definitely see a pickup this time of year as well with visitors because they’re traveling from out of town, they’re not at their home gyms and they want a place to work out,” McNee said.

McNee said anyone setting a fitness goal should start with something attainable and work toward a bigger goal over time.

“Start slow and be consistent,” McNee said. “It’s not going to change in a month for you, but you’ll see gradual and slow changes as you continue to stick to it.” 

McNee said everyone’s fitness benchmark varies depending on the current state of their fitness.

“Just getting to a gym, I would say from zero days a week to three to five days a week would be great, even just getting on a treadmill or elliptical, low-impact things that just get your body moving,” McNee said.

Kentucky Gym offers memberships, 24/7 access to members and fitness classes.

“These are group boxing classes; your whole body is in motion, you’re burning a lot of calories,” McNee said. “Yoga classes are fantastic, and all of our locations have dry saunas and cold plunges.” 

Another tip McNee offered is to have a workout buddy or someone to offer up accountability; however, most importantly, safety comes first. 

McNee added those looking to lose weight should adjust their diet over time to healthier options and portions. Most of the time, he said, quitting cold turkey or going all in right away can lead to burnout.

Kentucky Gym has locations in Lexington and Nicholasville, with plans to open a Georgetown location in May 2025.