When it comes to personal development and goal-setting, there are very few undertakings that are more challenging than maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle throughout the years, especially after the initial motivation of New Year's resolutions wears off.

We've all been there: we've started a plan, we've felt excited, and we've dove in with extreme gusto. Then, by week four--who am I kidding week two--we've suddenly lost motivation, and everything seems like it is too much.

Going to the gym is harder than passing it. Eating healthy is stressful and who has time to cook, again? Your diet is too restrictive and that exercise routine that you perfected while in your prime is hard as hell now.

And eventually, and inevitably, you quit.

Because the truth is, staying motivated every day to exercise and eat clean can be tough, and sometimes you just don't feel like it. Which is normal. But, each day that goes by with you stuck in this rut is another day missed and you go further and further from your fitness goal.

So, without further ado, and seeing how you've already wasted enough time, I present to you to the 12 tricks to keep your fitness fever--and mine--elevated at the highest degree.

Sign Up for a Competition

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There are so many fitness competitions out there, and many of them are worth the experience. From Tough Mudder to Rugged Maniac, from 5k races to 10k ones, you'll have plenty of motivation towards getting the fit body you desire. Plus, with the competition's immutable date, you'll have a set deadline to get in the shape you want.

Featured image by Getty Images

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