Old habits die hard, which is why beginning a fitness routine can be so challenging. When assessing your social support system, are your friends likewise committed to a healthy lifestyle or are they among the large group of Americans who don’t exercise?
Research suggests that your attitudes toward fitness and nutrition are linked to the people closest to you.1 You’re far more likely to be successful in your efforts if you include other people in your inner circle who are passionate toward a fit lifestyle and will further motivate you toward making healthy choices. We’re not saying that you should just dump your old group of friends, but seeking out individuals who inspire you toward making healthy decisions and physical improvements can reinforce positive behaviors.
1Christakis, N. A., & Fowler, J. H., 2006. The spread of obesity in a large social network over 32 years. New England Journal of Medicine. 357(4):370-379.
