1. Schedule time for training

Book your training sessions in advance. Setting up a concrete weekly schedule can be a good way to get started. Select times when you know you can make it and consider your workout time essential. This is your time. This is your time. It's a good idea to pack your bag the night before so you're prepared. Don't forget to pack a snack as well so you can quickly and easily get some energy for your training.

2. Start slowly -  avoid injuries. 

Don't push yourself too hard at the start. It's much better to train once a week throughout the year than three times a week for two weeks. Lower your risk of injury by holding off on the most intense workouts. Why not begin with some gentle sessions? Here you'll find the same kind of training as in the standard classes, but the instructors are more explicit and the tempo is calmer. Ideal for taking your time to get the technique and feel right.

3. See the big picture

Step back and see the bigger picture. Things aren't "messed up" just because you were sick for a week or your training didn't go exactly how you wanted. Give yourself a high five for the workouts you actually get done! Feeling guilty never helps.

4. Set a goal – and devise a plan to achieve it!

Consider your motivation for training. Do you want to conquer the sledding hill? Deadlift 220 pounds? Goals don't need to be performance-based. Why not challenge yourself by completing 30 sessions in 10 weeks or trying every class Friskis offers within a year? If you've had the same training goal for a while, it might be refreshing to think of a completely new one. Once you've determined your destination: Develop a plan of action to get there.

5. Break down your goals and reward your progress.

A great tip is to divide your main goal into milestones. Reward yourself each time a milestone is reached! It's also wise to create a plan with deadlines. When should the milestones and the main goal be achieved? Is your goal to be able to run for a continuous 30 minutes? A milestone could be to be able to run for half that duration when you're halfway through your training plan.