Five crazy new years’ resolutions you just might keep

Yup, it’s that time of year. New year, new you, all that jazz.

New year’s resolutions have a bad rap because 80% of them never happen, but the downtime in January is still an excellent time to reflect. What makes you happy? What do you want to do more of? Who do you want to be? 

The past couple of years have been, well…interesting. And we’ll have to wait to see how nuts 2022 is. 

But we can still make choices to do something different in our lives, be better humans, be happier. For people who love being outside, why not make an adventure out of it? Hit the new year with no fear. Call it a new years’ resolution if you like, or just make 2022 the year that you get out there and have your best year yet.

Finding your best new years’ resolution

The top new years’ resolutions for 2022 are the old favourites - lose weight, eat healthier and do more exercise. Yawn. You can do better. Here’s how.

1. Make a wish list

What do you already love doing? Do you want to do more of it? Get better at it? Do it in different locations? Or do you want to do something totally different? Something you’ve always wanted to do but never actually done? Write it all down. What’s the one thing on this list that gets your blood pumping? That’s where you’ll start.

2. Map out the steps to making it happen

Let’s say you want to ride your first wave. Will you hit up a mate to take you out? Do they have a learner board? Or will you try a class? How likely is it that you’ll get hurt? Should you grab injury insurance for the day? Break your goal into actionable steps so you can tackle it bit by bit.

3. Set a date

Literally lock it in and JFDI.

New years’ resolution ideas

Struggling for inspo? Here are some ideas and tips to get your adventure started.

Mountain biking

• Learn a new skill: learn how to drift or build a bike from scratch. Watch how-to videos, then crack on.
• Build a trail: find local MTB groups through the socials and ask how you can contribute to trail maintenance. Grab a shovel and get creative.
• Make 2022 the year you ride that trail: You know, the one you’ve been avoiding. DO IT.

Surfing

• Get paddle fit: Okay, this doesn’t seem the most exciting goal, but it’s the key to pleasing your soul with the stoke of catching the best waves of the day.
• Go somewhere new: Do some research. Try a wave park. Head off the beaten track and away from your regular haunts. 
• Be a better surfer: Nope, don’t mean technically. Talking about bringing your own wax, helping out a grom, not being a wave hog, collecting rubbish and rinsing out your wetsuit (yes, every time).

Rock climbing

• Share the love: Make 2022 the year you get a mate into climbing. Or join a new climbing group.
• Push the grades: Climb in new areas and push yourself. Set your sights on small steps through the year. Get used to failing and enjoy the sweetness when you pass.
• Warm up: loads of climbing injuries can be prevented by taking the time to stretch and warm up before you hang from those fingers. If you’re trying something new, consider injury insurance to cover your butt.

Cycling

• Ride to work: Commuting on your bike will increase your ride-fitness dramatically. Plus, you’ll arrive energised and ready for your day. If you’re WFM, get out for a pre-work ride anyway.
• Join a cycling club: Research by Strava shows a 10% lift in activity when people join a club, and group rides are on average twice the distance of solo rides.
• Learn how to do basic repairs and maintenance: Knowing your bike shiz will save you hassle and cash. Get on it.

Snowsports

• Get snow fit: Yes, it’s January, but it’s not too early to start working on your snow fitness. Aim to strengthen your glutes, quads and core and you’ll reduce your risk of injury this season.
• Try something new: Learn telemark turns on some cross country trails. Swap your skis for a board. Try a split board. Heli-ski. Options abound.
• Be sustainable: Snowsports aren’t awesome for your carbon footprint. Be sustainable by buying second hand gear, supporting sustainable brands and taking a reusable water bottle.
  

Making your resolution stick

If you really want to achieve your goals, try these tips:

1. Be specific: Honestly, don’t fall for the ‘exercise more’ trap. Decide exactly what you want to do and why. It’ll help you follow through.
2. Be social: Make a joint goal with a mate to keep each other honest. Or join a club. You’re much more likely to keep at it.
3. Make it fun: You know what floats your boat. When you get a massive high from doing what you love, sticking with it isn’t going to be hard.

Over to you

It’s time to turn your resolution into action. Get out there and enjoy your adventures!