Why Experimenting with Your Fitness Routine Could Be the Key to Success in 2025

As 2025 rolls in, we all get the urge to start the new year on a better footing. Many are entirely lost in how to add more physical activity to their lives, but a new routine doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Instead of setting a goal, think of it as an experiment. The subtle word difference changes your attitude from “This is going to be a lot of work,” to “Let’s see if I like doing this.” This might be a game-changer for you.

The first thing you need is to create an experiment. This could be training at a different time (a.m. vs. p.m.), walking more (10,000 steps) or starting something fun, such as dancing. Who says you need to join a gym? You can experiment with that, too, if you wish.

These experiments are not goals you can pass or fail, but tests of what works best for you. Whether dancing your heart out in a Zumba class, hitting the weights at the gym or practicing yoga in your living room, you can explore a world of fitness opportunities. Switching things up every few weeks is OK if you feel something is not working.

The challenge is to keep experimenting and moving more than the previous year. The key is to keep it fun and engaging; your motivation will thank you.

There is a difference between “experimenting” and “setting a goal.” Think about it. Experimenting does not seem as hard as setting a goal. And you do not fail experiments like you do if you do not reach your goal. I think one of the reasons I have stayed consistent with exercise for more than 40 years now is that I am constantly searching for exercises, choreography of movements and cardio events that I enjoy. I find ways to improve performance -- continually experimenting as a coach and a student.

Next, be consistent with some movement. Commit to daily activity. It doesn’t have to be an hourlong sweat session when a 20-minute walk can work wonders for your health and well-being. The goal is to get moving regularly, making physical activity a natural part of your day. Consider an appointment with yourself -- a commitment only you can make. Set it in the schedule as well. If it is not on the schedule or daily to-do list, it does not exist.

I have found that this appointment is best adhered to when there is no potential for other commitments to get in the way. The early morning is perfect for an hour of “me time,” as work, family or other appointments can easily interfere with midday or end-of-the-day fitness time. Experiment with the time of day you exercise as well.

Scheduling these fitness “appointments” is crucial. Treat them like you would an important meeting. Block off time in your calendar and commit yourself. Stick to it like you would when meeting with your boss or going to a doctor’s appointment. Remember that every workout is a step toward achieving your ultimate goals, whether losing weight, improving your health or simply feeling better in your skin.

Patience is key to your success, because creating new habits takes time. Start small by incorporating a few minutes of movement during work breaks or swapping out a sugary snack for something healthier. Celebrate your victories, no matter how small they may seem. Each step forward is progress; experiment with keeping a daily account of your workouts and what you eat. On a successful day, you can have a model for setting up the rest of the week.

Staying committed to your fitness goals means holding yourself accountable and building discipline through your consistency. Drawing from my coaching experiences, I’ve seen firsthand how small, consistent changes can lead to significant transformations. Prioritizing daily activity and committing to specific fitness times can help you build sustainable habits that stick.

Here’s to a new year filled with health, happiness and fulfilling your fitness aspirations! While my fitness and coaching journey taught me the importance of these principles, I fully believe everyone can discover their path to health and happiness with some experimentation. You will soon notice physical changes, more energy, a better mood and an overall wellness boost you can see in annual physicals with the doctor.

This year, it’s time to experiment with yourself and get moving to do something that interests you or is done at a different time of the day. You can transform your fitness experience into a fun event where you become stronger, fitter, and look and feel better with something you enjoy doing. Don’t navigate this journey alone. Email coach Stew Smith at Stew@StewSmith.com and find support and inspiration in the Military.com Fitness Section.

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