KEN HUNT'S TRAINING TIPS FOR THE NEW YEAR

As we close the book on 2008 and look with hope towards 2009, our thoughts naturally turn to new year’s resolutions!

You might not know that the tradition of the New Year's resolutions goes all the way back to 153 B.C. Janus, a mythical king of early Rome was placed at the head of the calendar. With two faces (sounds like a few old boyfriends), Janus could look back on past events and forward to the future. Janus became the ancient symbol for resolutions and many Romans looked for forgiveness from their enemies and also exchanged gifts before the beginning of each year.

Rather than suggest what you should do. Instead, I thought I would give you framework to use so that you can decide on the resolutions that are right for you.

First , create a plan. Setting a goal without formulating a plan is merely wishful thinking. In order for your resolution to have resolve (as the word "resolution" implies), it must translate into clear steps that can be put into action. A good plan will tell you A) What to do next and B) What are all of the steps required to complete the goal. (CONT'D)

Create your plan immediately. If you're like most people, then you'll have a limited window of opportunity during the first few days of January to harness your motivation. After that, most people forget their resolutions completely. Write down your resolutions and your plan. This will help you stick to it. Use a notebook, journal or special file on your computer or iPhone.

Think “year round,” not just New Year’s. Nothing big gets accomplished in one day. Resolutions are set in one day, but accomplished with hundreds of tiny steps throughout the year. New year's resolutions should be nothing more than a starting point. You must develop a ritual or habit for revisiting your plan.

Lastly, be flexible. Expect that your plan can and will change. Life has a funny way of throwing unexpected things at us, and flexibility is required to complete anything but the simplest of goals. Sometimes the goal itself will even change. Most of all, recognize partial successes at every step along the way. Just as a resolution isn't accomplished the day it's stated, neither is it accomplished the day you reach your goal. Rather, it's accomplished in many small increments along the way. Acknowledge these successes as they come. Good Luck!!

And to all of you—please accept my best wishes for a happy and healthy 2009.

Steel Gym has been named "#1 Gym in New York" two years in a row by the American Fitness Institute for "cost, cleanliness, equipment and service," and has been called "the last real gym left in New York" by famed bodybuilder Victor Martinez. Ken Hunt has been featured in the New York Times, Men's Fitness, GENRE, HX, Stonewall News, EXIT South Africa and on Sirius Radio and Feast of Fools. The gym is located at 146 W. 23rd St, New York, NY. For more information on Steel Gym, please call 212.352.9876 or visit www.steelgym.com.

Comments

[Mike]

What a true inspiration. You continue to turn out great articles while maintaining your own great body.Have you thought of a book? Offering workshops? Are you a trainer? Where can we read and see more of you? Thank you for a great article.

[Sebastian]

Love him!! Ken will you be my live-in personal trainer?

[Joseph]

Ken is an amazing person and a great trainer.

He makes you feel right at home when working out.

[William]

Such an inspiring man. You give new meaning to learning and giving. Your gym is AMAZING. It is all the rage in Chelsea and New York. I hear that everyone (including me) wants more more more. Is there a book, dvd or tv show in the works? How can anyone keep this man from his full potential? I have been around a long while but you bring fresh ideas to fitness and achieving goals. Keep it up HUNT.. Your star is rising...and we are all pulling for you big guy.

[Frankie C]

Ken My New Year’s resolution for 2009 I have decided is to set my goal and go forth on pushing myself at the gym to become bigger and focus on my training in boxing.

I want to say Mr Hunt in reading your words you have given me the drive to stay on my path allowing me to keep steady and strong in my fitness program.

I will be contacting you to talk more on what suggestions you may have on what I should be doing and not doing.

You have inspired me in a major way and I can read in your words you have care,concern and enjoyment for the well being of others.

Thank you for caring.

Best to you
Frankie

[JIMMY JAMES]

THANK YOU KEN!
for being such a wonderful person and helping me workout properly. I come back to NY in January and can't wait to see you again.

YOU DO HAVE THE CLEANEST GYM ANYWHERE!

BIG LOVE,
JIMMY JAMES

[darren]

hey ken... yeah its the new year.. and i like your article cause its always tough to keep to new years resolutions... i like the way you layed it out in a step to step format.. i will definately try and stick to my plan for 2009..
keep the articles coming buddie.. it is definately good reading and informative

darren

[Mary-Denise R]

HI Handsome Thanks for another great article I do look so forward to reading your words of advice I have a whole list of resolutions for this year and your plan of action will help me achieve them. You are the best---all good things to you in 2009 MR

[Marko]

Hey Big Man--Thanks for the words of wisdom. Its always a pleasure to read what you have to say. You are not only serious about working out, but serious about life too. I will let you know when I have achieved some of my goals for 2009--and trust me I got plenty. Continued success at Steel Gym

[BigBadJames]

Hey Ken-- As one big bodybuilder to another thanks for the great advice and workout tips. Really helpful and welcome. Would love to workout with you sometime. When I get to NYC on business I will let you know. Can I book some training sessions with you. Will be touch Meanwhile Happy 2009

[Thumper]

Hey Muscles--how about a winner take all wrestling match--Just you and me---Bring it on

[Jon]

GREAT article Ken! Keep up the good work. Thanks for being an inspiration to me at they gym, and in life! You have to be one of the most generous people I've ever met. Listen to this man....if you do....he'll change your life for the better.

[Marko]

Hey Ken--always happy to see you on the pages of Ethan Says---thanks for the great advice and tips on working out. Keep up the great work. When do we get to see some photos of you with your shirt off? Love Marko

[Rod]

I had heard that you were writing articles. So glad that I found them. I am so thankful for your advice that helped me gain the muscle and lose the fat I needed to. You are the reason I am in the great shape that I am. Thank you Ken for saving my life and giving me a reason to carry on.. I love your advice and you for making me a NEW MAN..

[karen]

Do you do personal training? I am getting married in a few weeks and I would love to have you help me shed a size or two. Also several of my bridesmaids and my mother are interested in a "Hunt Boot Camp". I now know where to go... Your web site. www.steelgym.com. Thanks in advance. You have given me hope for a bright future. You are sexier that Richard Simmons and more approachable than Jack La Lane... you are everyone's dream trainer and come true.

[Toby Askew]

I cannot begin to express how this has helped me with goal setting for 2009 WHEN IT COMES TO OTHER AREAS OF MY LIFE.
Ken's advice is right on target!!!!!
I LOVE HIM DEARLY!
ALL THE BEST,
FROM HIS FAVORITE AUNT!!!

[EVE]

I love this man--I have followed his advice and techniques and dropped 2 sizes. I am now back in jeans that havent seen the light of day in years. And just so you all know, I visited the Steel Gym website and sent Ken a personal email --WHICH HE ANSWERED-- with specific direction and comments. Thank Ken for keeping us fit and happy and looking beautiful. A Million Kisses Eve