For many of us, a new year often serves as a stimulus to level up and step into new territory. And just like our muscles grow stronger when they’re challenged, our confidence and resilience can expand when we push beyond what feels easy or familiar.
“Nothing changes if nothing changes,” says Brian Mazza, entrepreneur, high performance coach, and vice president of brand performance at Life Time. “Many of us are so scared of change because we have been told that comfort is OK. Breaking the norm helps make room for growth and meeting a version of yourself you haven’t been before.”
To inspire you to deviate from the usual and try something new, we rounded up several ways you can confidently venture into the unfamiliar.
1. Take a new-to-you class.
Maybe you’ve walked past the cycle studio, heard the party music, and want to know what the hype is all about. Maybe you’ve seen fellow members slinging heavy barbells in Alpha and want to see how heavy you can lift. Or maybe you’ve heard how beneficial yoga can be for stress but have been intimated by the poses.
Life Time classes create a welcoming environment for you to step out of your comfort zone with the support and guidance of certified coaches and instructors. (Learn more: “Why Life Time Classes Are for Everyone.”)
2. Meet new people.
One way to put yourself in atmospheres and situations out of your norm is to spend time with new people. Making friends can be intimidating and a challenge as an adult, but connection is vital to our well-being. A good place to start is getting involved in something that interests you.
At Life Time, this could look like joining a group training community like GTX, Alpha, Ultra Fit, or MB360, or becoming a regular in a studio, cycle, or yoga class. You’re likely to start recognizing familiar faces — all you have to do is strike up that first conversation.
3. Take on a fitness challenge or program.
Many of us go into the new year with the goal of adopting healthier habits and moving more consistently. A fitness challenge or program can keep you accountable on those days when you’re feeling like you might fall back into old habits.
Life Time hosts several in-club fitness challenges throughout the year, and you can find programs anytime on the Life Time app. (Learn more: “Take Your Pick: Which Life Time Digital Weight Loss & Training Program Is Right for You?”)
4. Sign up for an athletic event.
Whether you’re dipping your toe into the world of racing with your first 5K or are an avid biker looking to take on the intense challenge of a gravel race, Life Time’s athletic event options have something for everyone to push their potential. Choose from a variety of types and distances and get ready to set a new personal record in 2025. (Learn more: “Choose Your Race: A Guide to Life Time’s 2026 Athletic Events.”)
5. Pick up heavier weights.
One of the simplest ways to challenge yourself during a workout is to pick up heavier weights than you typically would. For example, if you’ve been using 10-pound dumbbells for bicep curls, try grabbing 12-pound ones and see how it goes. Even going up a pound or two can make a difference and serves as proof that you’re getting stronger. (Learn more: “5 Signs You Need to Add More Weight to Your Workout.”)
