With January 1st just passing a little under a month ago, many are eager and inspired to fulfill their fitness New Year’s Resolutions. However, as with each New Year, some will find that their inspiration quickly dwindles after they’ve lost their targeted weight or reached their fitness goals.

Have you ever experienced a fitness plateau? What did you do to overcome it?

In order to best answer this question, I looked to Joyce Cherrier, a Certified Personal Trainer and fitness-centric Social Media maven who also runs the extremely witty and clever blog Freaking Fitness when she is not hiking, surfing or playing her bass. Before asking her for her tips on how to avoid a fitness plateau, I wanted to get to know her a little better:

How did you first get involved in living and leading a healthy and fit life?

I learned to surf in my teens and I became stronger and healthier. I loved how that made me feel and the confidence it gave me. That led me down a healthier lifestyle path.

What prompted you to become a Certified Personal Trainer?

I’ve been in the sports, health and fitness industry for almost 30 years and I had done personal training many moons ago so I thought it appropriate to be certified and stay connected to the personal training part of the industry and stay up to date.

What do you primarily do now?

I write and work in Social Media for health and fitness brands, promoting a holistic healthy lifestyle.

What do you attribute to where you have gotten today?

I would say probably the desire to be a capable and strong woman. When I first started doing sports, I noticed the difference in how I felt and the effect it had on my self-esteem. I felt like I could accomplish anything. I was hooked.

How has Social Media played a role in your life? What specific traits have gotten you listen among top Social Media lists?

I think Social Media has fostered my love of people in a huge way. I’m a big believer in giving more than getting, and I try to always keep that front and center whenever I’m online. When I stay in the state of mind that asks “What can I do to help?”, I feel like I become a person with purpose.

Lastly, what are your recommendations for “5 Ways to Avoid a Fitness Plateau”?

1. Define your long-term health goals
2. Set realistic short-term goals along the way
3. Use variety to keep workouts fresh and fun
4. Make rest and recovery as important as your workouts
5. Make nutrition even more important

Thanks for reading and try to use these tips in your current fitness training. Let us know if you have any other tips you’d like to share!

To learn more about Joyce, follow her on Facebook, Twitter or check out her blog.