5 things to do NOW so you don’t have to join a gym to get healthy in 2026

Gyms across the country will be packed on Jan. 2. But just a few weeks later, most of those go-getters are nowhere to be found. In fact, according to U.S. News & World Report, about 80% of people drop their resolution by February. The number one reason for failure is simple: no clear plan.

“We’re real here,” says Lindy Vincent on her show “Get Lean & Lit with Lindy”. “We keep it candid. We get to the point, and I give you tips and tricks to build healthy habits to live your best life.”

Vincent, a New Jersey wife and mom of three who was once a corporate executive, is now a National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM) certified personal trainer and living out her passion as a fitness podcaster.

“I grew my career and then branched off on my own as a health and fitness professional,” said Vincent. “I started my own company, whipping people into shape and getting their nutrition right. That’s been my passion from day one.”

Vincent admits that honesty is key to getting people healthy, especially this time of year. “People will always say, I’m going to start on Monday or I’m going to start in 2026,” Vincent explained. “Why are people always pushing it off. Don’t wait. The longer you wait, the harder it’s going to be.”

Instead, Vincent said, start getting healthy now and has a simple roadmap to keep you on track.

5 Easy Ways to Start Now on Your 2026 Health Goals

1.      Prioritize Protein

“Every time you eat, stop and think, ‘What is my protein in this meal or snack?’”

Vincent explained that protein keeps you full, protects your muscles, stabilizes energy, reduces cravings, and keeps your metabolism high. She suggested 4 to 6 ounces of protein like chicken breasts, cottage cheese, or hamburger, then build your meal around that protein.

2.      Move Throughout the Day

“Most people think, ‘ok, I worked out and moved my body so now I can sit down on the couch and watch Netflix for the rest of the day,’ and that’s not really what it’s about,” Vincent explained. She said it’s important to move throughout the day. That means walking on the treadmill for several minutes every couple of hours, parking your car further away while running errands, or putting on your favorite song for a midday dance break.

3.      Fiber

It is recommended that Minnesotans get 30 grams of fiber every day. Most only get 10 grams. “Fiber helps you to regulate your blood sugar, it supports your digestion, it also reduces cravings, and it helps keep your hormones in check,” Vincent added. She said you can get fiber in fruits, especially berries, as well as vegetables, beans, whole grains, nuts, and seeds.

4.      Hydration and Alcohol

Vincent warned that there is a long list of negative things that happen to your body when you are dehydrated, including feeling tired, hungry, and bloated. “Fixing dehydration is super easy.” Vincent said you simply need to drink half your body weight in water every day. If you weigh 120 pounds, drink at least 60 ounces of water. Vincent’s pro tip, which she practices daily, is to fill a water bottle each night and put it next to your bed. “When I wake up in the morning, I don’t let my feet touch the floor until my water bottle is empty.”

Vincent also warned about alcohol, which is flowing this time of year. “If you're drinking alcohol, drink a full 8 to 12-ounce glass of water between each alcoholic drink.” Vincent advised not to drink throughout the party or evening. “Drink one or two with water in between and keep it moving.”

5.      Have a Holiday Plan

Your favorite auntie might want you to eat something, or your sister may be pouring you another glass of wine, but Vincent said you don’t have to eat, drink, or do anything you don’t want to during the holidays. She says its ok to stay committed to your health goals, despite what is happening around you.

Want more coaching from Vincent? Check out “Get Lean & Lit with Lindy” on Apple, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.