It’s no secret: When we’re physically healthy, we tend to be happier, more productive, and less likely to need a doctor. That’s why so many of us resolve each new year to get more exercise.

Unfortunately, those fitness resolutions often crash and burn within weeks under the weight of self-doubt, unrealistic goals and expectations, procrastination, fear, and uncertainty about where to start and what to do, according to Bryan and Patty Sibbach, fitness consultants for the Capital Blue Cross Connect Health and Wellness Center at Hampden Marketplace, Enola.

The Sibbachs, fitness entrepreneurs who operate two Precision Training Concepts fitness studios in the Harrisburg region, are fitness optimists. With the right approach, those broken resolutions can rise from the ashes, they say:

Hit the Reset

“You can always hit the reset button,” Patty Sibbach said. “It’s never too late. Don’t get discouraged because you failed the first time.”

Know the why

“Ask yourself, ‘why get fit? Why now?’” Bryan Sibbach said. “You have to want it.”

Set realistic goals

“You have to have a series of realistic goals,” Patty said. “Smaller changes lead to bigger and better results.”

Keep it simple

“There’s 168 hours in a week,” Bryan said. “Let’s start with a good gameplan.” That could include stretching, flexibility exercises, resistance training, walking, and choosing apples over Doritos. “Just keep it simple. It’s cardio, resistance, and good nutrition,” Bryan said.

No negative self-talk

“People can be their own worst enemy,” Bryan explained. “They’ll say, ‘I don’t look good. I don’t feel good.’” Research shows negative self-talk can negatively influence mental and physical health and diminish our ability to manage stress.

Educate yourself

Not knowing what to do or how to start is a huge obstacle to fitness, the Sibbachs say. Trainers can help people learn what to do and how to start based on their current age, fitness level, and goals.

Employers like healthy employees too, and that’s why a growing number of employers offer access to fitness experts as part of their workplace health programs.

Capital Blue Cross employees, for example, can get free fitness consultations and significant fitness training discounts through in-house personal trainers and through its five Capital Blue Cross Connect health and wellness centers. Capital fitness instructors also work directly with some of the companies who subscribe to its health plan.

“Investing in your body is the most important investment you’ll ever make,” Patty said.

“Ask a professional,” Bryan added. “I could go buy all the tools and try to fix my car myself on a Sunday afternoon, but it’s not going to end well. I’m going to let the professionals fix my car. It’s the same concept in fitness.”