
How To Make (And Keep) New Year’s Resolutions
The end of one year and beginning of another is the perfect time to turn a new page. Enter: the New Year’s resolution.
Believe it or not, but New Year’s resolutions have actually been around for thousands of years. The ancient Babylonians are said to have started the tradition some 4,000 years ago - it’s like they say, you learn something new every day!
It just goes to show we’ve been doing this for a very long time! You’d think we’d be experts at it by now, but as we all know, resolutions are much easier to make than keep. By the end of March, many of us have abandoned our goals and settled back into our old ways - about 80% of us, in fact!
Part of the problem may be that we don’t actually know how to keep New Year’s resolutions, despite our good intentions. That’s why we’ve put together some tips to maximise your chances of achieving your goals.
1. CHOOSE A SPECIFIC GOAL
One of the reasons so many people struggle to keep their New Year’s resolutions is because their goals are too vague.
If your goal is to lose weight, rather than saying ‘I want to lose weight’, think about how much weight you want to lose and across what time period. Choosing a concrete, achievable goal gives you the opportunity to plan exactly how you’re going to accomplish (and stick) to your goal over the course of the year.
2. TRACK YOUR PROGRESS
This may seem obvious if your goal is a fitness or weight-loss related one, but it’s also important if you’re trying to cut back on something, too. Logging your progress into a journal or app or making notes on your phone can reinforce what progress you’ve made. This allows you to see - and celebrate - the milestones that you’ve already hit.
Celebrating your own successes is so important, as positive emotions can help maintain your motivation and boost your mental wellbeing too!
3. SET GOALS THAT ARE REALISTIC & ACHIEVABLE
This doesn’t mean that you can’t push yourself or have big goals, but taking on too much too quickly is a recipe for disaster. Starting an unsustainably restrictive diet, overdoing it at the gym, or radically changing your normal behaviour are guaranteed to derail your plans. Instead, focus on taking smaller steps that will ultimately help you reach your larger goal. Achieving even one small goal can boost your belief in yourself!
4. SET A GOAL THAT IS RELEVANT TO YOU
One of the major pitfalls of New Year’s resolutions is choosing a resolution based on what someone else (or even society) is telling you to change, as opposed to what you want to change.
When setting your goal, ask yourself if this is a goal that really matters to you, and are you making it for the right reasons? Making New Year’s resolutions actually requires some proper planning and thought. Find activities that come naturally, are enjoyable and provide value for you. This will help you stay consistent and make your goal feel less of a chore.
5. BE PATIENT
Setting goals that are realistic is important as setting a realistic timeline toward reaching your goals. That means giving yourself enough time to do it with lots of smaller, intermediate goals set up along the way.
Understand that working toward your goal is a process. Even if you make a misstep or two, you can restart and continue on your journey. It may take longer than you had hoped, but remember this is not a race. Once you’ve pledged to change a behaviour, it may well be something that you continue to work on for the rest of your life.
Sometimes, the difference between success and failure is simply choosing the right goal and the process you follow to go about achieving it.
Remember to be kind and flexible with yourself and, if necessary, don’t be afraid to reach out for support. Having a solid support system can help you stay motivated and accountable.
Most importantly, don’t give up! By March, you may find that you’ve lost that initial spark that you had in January. Keep that inspiration alive by continuing to work on your goals and bouncing back from setbacks - resilience is key! It’s not just the end goal that matters, it’s the journey along the way.
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Beginners guide to starting a running routine this year
Whether you're looking for a new fitness challenge, gearing up for a 10k run, or simply aiming to get in shape - your running journey starts here!
Running is one of the most accessible ways to get fit, relieve stress, and boost mental health but it can also be intimidating if you’re just starting out. We’ve put together a simple guide to help you get moving safely and confidently this year.
1. Set Realistic Goals
Starting with a goal can make all the difference. Begin with something achievable, like running a specific distance or time, or simply going for three short runs a week. Avoid setting high expectations right away; this will help you stay motivated without the pressure.
2. Start Slowly
A common mistake beginners make is diving in too fast. Start with a mix of walking and running, such as the “run-walk” method. Try alternating a few minutes of running with a minute of walking, gradually increasing the running intervals each week.
3. Invest in Essential Gear
A quality pair of running shoes that matches your foot type and supports your stride can greatly reduce injury risk and enhance comfort. Moisture-wicking clothing will keep you dry, especially if you're running in various weather conditions. Adding a reliable set of headphones for music and a running vest can boost motivation and keep essentials within reach on your runs.
4. Warm Up and Cool Down
Warming up prepares your muscles for the workout and can improve your performance. Start with a 5-minute brisk walk or dynamic stretches. After running, spend a few minutes cooling down with gentle stretching to help prevent stiffness and soreness.
5. Track Your Progress
Using a journal, app, or smartwatch to track your runs helps you see progress over time and keeps you motivated. Start with a baseline run, and gradually push your limits by small increments each week. Seeing improvements, no matter how small, can give you a huge confidence boost.
6. Listen to Your Body
It’s normal to feel some discomfort as you start running, but pain is a red flag. If you feel sharp or persistent pain, take a rest day and allow yourself to recover. Proper rest is crucial for building endurance and strength over time.
7. Stay Consistent
Consistency is key in building a running routine. Aim for small, steady improvements each week rather than big jumps. Finding a running buddy, joining a local park run, or having an upbeat playlist can help you stay motivated on those days when getting out the door feels tough.
8. Celebrate Milestones
Whether it’s your first mile or first week without skipping a session, take time to celebrate! Acknowledging your achievements, no matter how small, can help keep you excited about your progress.
Starting a running routine can be a life-changing decision that builds not just physical fitness but also mental resilience. So, lace up, stay positive, and enjoy the journey—your goals are just a run away!
Shop AYBL for the latest activewear to keep you motivated in achieving your fitness goals this year!
Top Activewear pieces to achieve your goals this year
It’s the new year and you’re ready to crush your gym goals and reach new PB’s, which means it’s time to invest in some new activewear pieces and you're in luck! We've got an endless supply of activewear pieces to make you look good and feel good when crushing the gym. This is the year you to be the best version of yourself so let's get it!
Adapt
Our newest collection has just launched and is ready and waiting for you to crush your goals! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable in the gym. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
The best part about this collection is that it offers versatility with the Sports Bra which can be worn in 4 different ways so you can style it however you wish!
Launched in 6 colours: Black, Slate, Green, Brown, Pink and Iris Blue and available in the below styles:
- Seamless Sports bra (worn 4 ways)
- Seamless Zip Jacket
- Seamless Crop top
- Seamless Shorts
- Seamless Leggings

So flex your style, adapt to your strength, and crush your goals with our latest Adapt collection. Shop here.
Empower
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in many styles such as Leggings, Shorts, Sports Bra, Crop top, Long Sleeve crop top and available in 26 colours you’ll be spoilt for choice!
So push your limits and look your best in our Empower Collection. Shop here.
Balance V3
Balance V3 is another one of our bestsellers and not to mention - a workout wardrobe essential! It supports you from daily workouts to PB achievements. With contour detailing, flattering v neckline shaping, and bold colours, it's a collection worth exploring.
Available in Shorts, Leggings, Sports Bra, Strappy Sports Bra, Zip Jacket & Crop Top and in 26 different colours - this collection is perfected for your performance to help smash your goals. Shop Balance V3 here.
Essential Bras
These are a must-have for any workout wardrobe, and we've got a range of flattering styles and colours to suit any leggings or shorts. Whether you prefer a classic racerback or something with a little more support, our essential bras are perfect for an effortless range of movements.
Shop Essential Bras here
So there you have it, outfits with your name on - ready for you to crush your goals this year! Remember, the right activewear not only enhances your performance but also motivates you to show up and give your best every day. If you're looking for even more collections or accessories to style with, head over to our website.
AYBL Now Available in JD Sports
WE’VE GOT BIG NEWS! 👀
We’re thrilled to announce that AYBL is now available in JD Sports stores across the UK, Scotland & Ireland!
You can now shop AYBL in real life at selected JD stores across the UK, Scotland, and Ireland. Discover our latest releases alongside your favourite best-sellers, all designed to fit your active lifestyle. Here’s everything you need to know about our in-store collections:
What are some of the store locations?
What items can you shop in-store?
Empower Collection
The Empower Seamless Collection is a best-seller, known for its ultra-soft fabrics and intricate contouring, boosting confidence during workouts. With the broadest colour range, it's the go-to for sculpting support during weight and strength training.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports bra
- Full Zip Jacket
- Leggings
- Shorts

Adapt Collection
Get your hands on our newest collection launched this month! Adapt will have you looking fierce, feeling unstoppable, and help you smash your gym goals. Made from a lightweight, seamless, silky-soft fabric, Adapt moves with you, offering the perfect stretch to sculpt, flatter, and adapt to your shape, boosting your confidence in every workout. Built to withstand your toughest routines, this premium fabric combines durability with luxurious comfort.
Available in selected styles:
- Sports Bra
- Zip Jacket
- Leggings

Varsity Collection
Varsity, our trendiest loungewear collection yet. With a cool and playful edge, each piece is designed for comfort and effortless style. Varsity is the ultimate upgrade to your off-duty essentials. Made to wear as a pump cover or as a lounging set, it's everyone's go-to fit.
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt

Not only have we launched in-store, but you can also shop AYBL online at JD Sports! Whether you prefer the ease of browsing from home or a fun shopping trip with the girls, JD is here to enhance your shopping experience with us like never before!
One collection that deserves your attention is the Sports Club Collection. Made for ultimate comfort, it features soft fleece-lined sweat fabric and an oversized fit, making it perfect to layer over your activewear for the gym or wear as a cozy lounging set. It’s the go-to fit everyone’s loving!
Available in selected styles:
- Hoodie
- Joggers
- T-Shirt

This is just the beginning—we can’t wait to see you shop AYBL IRL! Visit your nearest JD store to explore our AYBL fits’, and don’t forget to share your experience on socials by tagging us. See you there! Shop the full range of AYBL online at JD or visit us in-store to discover your favourites today!