Mark your calendars: January 9, 2026, is "National Quitters Day."
It’s that Friday when the holiday lights in Independence Park are coming down and "New Year, New Me" energy starts to fade.
It’s easy to stay motivated when you’re making resolutions by the fire. It’s a lot harder when you have to scrape your windshield and put on 7 layers just to get to the gym. But this year, Marshall is staying strong.
Here is how to stick to your goals at the Marshall Y well past January 9.
1. Focus on Inputs, Not Outputs
Resolutions like "lose 20 pounds" or "get a six-pack" are focused on outputs. You can’t 100% control those.
Focus on the input instead. Make your goal "Walk the indoor track for 20 minutes" or "Include a vegetable in every meal." You can control your behavior. If you focus on this, the results will follow!
2. Remove Friction Points
Make your habit as convenient as possible. If your routine has too much friction, you’ll stop—especially when it’s 10 below outside.
The Fix: Audit your excuses.
- Too tired after work? Don't go home first. Once you hit that warm house, the Marshall winter will convince you to stay there. Pack your bag and head straight to the Y on A Street before heading home.
- Don’t know what to do? Don't just wander the weight room! A YMCA trainer can help you set up a routine so you can walk in and get to work without overthinking it.
- No time to cook? Keep it simple. Stop by Hy-Vee or Aldi on your way home and grab a pre-made salad kit or a rotisserie chicken. It’s quick, healthy, and keeps you from ordering takeout.
3. Use the 2-Day Rule
Consistency is your secret weapon. If you miss a day because plows haven't hit your street yet or you had to stay late at work, that’s life. If you miss two days, you’re slipping into a new, inactive habit.
The Golden Rule: Never skip 2 days in a row. Even if it’s just a 15-minute stretch in your living room, keep the momentum going.
4. Pre-Plan Your Adjustments
Life happens. Kids get sick. We get a blizzard that shuts down the whole town.
Have a backup plan ready to go.
If you can't safely get to the Y, have an at-home substitute ready. Do 25 push-ups, some bodyweight squats, or even some active cleaning. Anything is better than doing nothing!
5. Make it Enjoyable and Social
You don't have to do a grueling workout you hate just because you saw it on Instagram.
Choose modes of exercise that you actually enjoy!
- Love some friendly competition? Hit the gymnasium for some hoops or pickleball.
- Need to escape the winter? Our indoor pool is the perfect place to get your heart rate up without the chill.
- Need a push? Try one of our Group Exercise classes where the energy is contagious.
Bonus: Reward your consistency! After a week of hitting your goals, treat yourself to a coffee at Main Stay or a new workout shirt from Borch's Sporting Goods.
Whether you're looking to swim laps, walk the track, or just find a warm place to move your body during the long Marshall winter, we’re here for you.
Come see us at the Marshall Area YMCA and let's make 2026 the best year yet!