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  • This SIMPLE Mindset Shift Fixes Yo-Yo Dieting, “Discipline” Failures, and Abandoned New Year Resolutions For Good

    New Year, New You… Again?

    As we usher in the New Year, many of us find ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of resolutions and ambitious goals…again.

    The gyms are buzzing, kale salads are flying off the shelves, and the collective determination to get fit is palpable. Yet, despite the initial enthusiasm, the cycle of yo-yo dieting, fitness failures, and abandoned New Year resolutions seems to repeat itself year after year.

    What if the key to success lies not in the resolution or the goal itself, but in a simple shift in mindset? 

    The Power of Mindset

    Let’s be honest – there isn’t a lot of excitement in grinding out another solo workout at the gym or finding flavorful meals to cook while operating on a calorie deficit week after week.

    Rather than approaching health and fitness as a physical chore, consider reframing health and fitness as a means to finding happiness, joy, and community within physical activities (not workouts).

    This isn’t just a play on words, it’s a powerful shift in your entire approach.

    Discovering an activity – or multiple activities – that genuinely sparks joy can help you reach all of your health and fitness goals without it ever feeling like work, or working out.

    It could be dancing, hiking, or a recreational league. Or, you might explore something that might be completely new to you in the realm of martial arts like Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, or Kickboxing.

    Regardless, your number one goal is to find something that is FUN to you. 

    Students smiling and having fun with kickboxing bags at SBG

    Leveraging a community to thrive

    The best way to amplify the “activities, not workouts” concept is to combine it with community.

    The support and accountability found in a community of like-minded individuals can elevate your journey to new heights. The camaraderie shared with others who are equally passionate about their goals can turn a solitary endeavor into a collective adventure.

    This sense of community becomes a driving force, motivating you to push beyond limits and celebrate each other’s successes. 

    Women smiling and having fun at no gi jiu jitsu learning self defense. All posing silly.

    While physical activities that you do alone – like hiking – are fantastic, they don’t offer the same experience as community-driven physical activities.

    If you’re someone who thrives with support, accountability, sharing in success, and generally having more fun with great people, make sure you choose an activity that has a strong community behind it.

    This is the path to dropping body fat, getting fit, and dramatically improving physical, mental, and emotional health without ever feeling like you’re doing the “diet and exercise” thing.

    Want to try something new? 

    For those seeking an exhilarating and fulfilling fitness journey, one that is FUN and anchored in a community, martial arts can be a game-changer.

    Imagine learning the art of self-defense while simultaneously achieving your fitness goals, all while having a ton of fun. That’s a win-win!

    Woman and Man smiling and having fun about to get a roll in jiu jitsu at SBG

    Programs such as Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, and Kickboxing offer not just physical benefits but also mental and emotional growth. At the core of martial arts lies a commitment to holistic well-being.

    It’s more than just counting calories and shedding pounds, it’s about gaining self-confidence, energy, and a practical skill set that extends beyond the gym. It’s the perfect example of embracing a lifestyle that nourishes your body, mind, and spirit.

    Not to mention, the camaraderie formed within the martial arts community is unparalleled. Lifelong friendships are forged through shared sweat, triumphs, and the collective pursuit of personal excellence, extending beyond the training mats to create a network of support that enriches every aspect of your life.

    When something has such a powerful impact on all facets of your life, it’s hard to fail. You look up in six months and you’re in a completely different place. You look up again and three years have gone by and you’re still going strong – better than ever.

    Kids laughing and bouncing in white bounce house at SBG

    Discovering Straight Blast Gym

    If you’re looking for what we’ve described in this article, and you’re up for exploring a gym who believes wholeheartedly in this philosophy, Straight Blast Gym (SBG Atlanta) might be a good fit.

    Our approach to martial arts prioritizes a fun, effective, engaging, and safe training environment. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or a total beginner, our coaches and community are committed to guiding you toward a healthier, fitter, and more confident version of yourself. 

    We want you to prioritize joy, surround yourself with a supportive community, and explore new avenues for personal growth regardless of whether you train with us or not, but if you’re curious how Straight Blast Gym can help you implement this mindset shift, give us call us (Buford Location: 770-277-8741; Atlanta Location: 404-905-5959) or

    Head Coaches laughing and smiling at SBG

    Autumn Gentry

    is the co-owner and Marketing Director of SBG Atlanta (Buford & Druid Hills locations). Her husband is the Founder/Owner. She has been training Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, Group Fitness, and Online Personal Training with SBG Atlanta since 2018 and is currently a Jiu Jitsu Blue Belt.