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The science of exercise: Sticking to your New Year’s workout plan

Most people don’t adhere to their New Year’s fitness resolutions. These science-backed tips can make you the exception

By Grace Wade

15 January 2025

New Scientist. Science news and long reads from expert journalists, covering developments in science, technology, health and the environment on the website and the magazine.

How can you set yourself up for exercise success in 2025?

Alamy Stock Photo

Whether you are a couch potato or fitness aficionado, the start of a new year is a great time to take up an exercise goal. The challenge, of course, is seeing it through. A 2020 study of more than 1000 participants found that only about half of them successfully sustained their resolutions for a year. I, for one, have tried and failed for years to tick running a half-marathon off my bucket list. I am determined for 2025 to be different. So how do you…

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