It’s a new year, and many have set a resolution to get in shape as one of their most popular choices, whether exercising, eating healthy, or losing weight.

There are many ways to accomplish these goals, such as developing healthy eating habits, joining a gym, investing in fitness equipment, or hiring a personal trainer.

Emmanuel Rutledge, personal trainer and owner of 864 Gym, said all these options are ideal and can help people reach their goals. The most crucial step is to set an achievable goal and take action.

“Taking small steps daily and being consistent will help you reach your goal,” he said.

New Year, new diet: Transform your body

Eating a healthy diet is essential to success, according to AnMed Young Adult Primary Care Dr. Carianna Coston, a member of the Obesity Medicine Association.

Coston said a colorful plate full of fruits and vegetables can help maintain a healthy weight. Lean meats like fish and chicken are also protein-rich and provide essential nutrients.

Starches like rice, pasta, and bread are high in sugar and carbohydrates. Coston recommends eating these foods in moderation.

She said overeating sugar and carbs can lead to weight gain and other health problems.

If you like sweets, Coston said, you can substitute fruits, which are also sweet.

She also recommends limiting the consumption of processed foods, which often contain added sugars and carbs.

Cooking classes at Anderson County Main Library

Attending a cooking class is another way to learn about healthier eating options. The Anderson County Main Library, located at 300 N. McDuffie St., holds cooking classes that teach how to prepare healthy meals using fresh ingredients, said Jenn McGlon, head of library marketing and communications.

McGlon added that these classes are also open to teenagers.

M. J. Ghrist, a health educator with Clemson SNAP-Ed, will demonstrate and teach people how to “lighten up” recipes. McGlon said each person can participate in the food preparation and sample all the food.

This event is mainly for adults. Space is limited.

Another class will teach teens delicious and fun snacks to make with air fryers, toaster ovens, and more. 

The last class is from 2 to 4 p.m. on Feb. 9 in the Gambrell Teen Room. For more information, contact Teen Librarian Rachel Lebbing at [email protected].

Gym, at home, or personal trainer: Exploring different paths to fitness success

Rutledge said joining a gym is ideal for sticking to New Year’s resolutions. He said joining a gym introduces you to similar people striving for the same goals.

The 864 Gym is owned and operated by Corey Davis, Rutledge, and Corey Patton.

864 Gym is located at 3014 N. Main St., Unit L. Its doors are open 24 hours a day, Monday through Sunday.

Rutledge said in some ways, you are a product of your environment. A sedentary lifestyle and eating unhealthy food can make it hard to stay on track with healthy goals.

The 864 Gym has a full selection of fitness equipment, including treadmills, elliptical machines, and free weights, Rutledge said. The 864 staff provides instruction on proper form and technique.

Suppose you prefer to stay at home, Rutledge said. You can always hire a virtual personal trainer who conducts virtual fitness classes.

“If you have the right equipment, working out at home can be just as effective as exercising in a gym,” Rutledge said.

You can substitute everyday items, like a jug of water, for weights. A gallon of water weighs approximately 8.75 pounds, making any essential body-weight exercise more challenging.

If not, you can always do calisthenic exercises like squats, pushups, planks, jumping jacks, lunges, and much more, Rutledge said. These exercises boost your muscular strength, mobility, and flexibility.

Whatever method you use to reach your fitness goals this year, Rutledge said staying motivated and exercising is vital to achieving your goals this season.

Travis Rose covers Anderson County for the Independent Mail. Reach him via email at[email protected].