“Pick a small goal, take it in baby steps,” Angela Cheatham said.
ARLINGTON, Texas — Angela Cheatham, a bodybuilder in training, is taking on a big challenge for 2025: To compete in a bodybuilding contest, inspired by the success of her trainer’s other clients.
Her New Year’s Day holiday included a serious workout at the gym Wednesday afternoon.
“I’ve seen numerous of his clients get on the stage and showcase their beautiful physique,” Cheatham said. “So, it’s a challenge to myself to get on the stage. Trying to get on the wall of fame.”
Her trainer, Jarrod York, owner of Gorilla’s Den Gym in Arlington, emphasized the importance of not just setting resolutions but following through. Not only has he won bodybuilding contests himself, but he has shown others the kind of dedication it takes to win. It always includes sticking to a goal and overcoming hurdles. The start of a new year is the perfect time to plan.
“You got to make the New Year’s resolution and then you got to go forward and do something about it,” York said.
As a personal trainer, It’s easy to understand why some people give up on their fitness goals, especially when they have not set the proper goals and expectations over time. York has heard plenty of excuses from people avoiding fitness goals, with one being the most common.
“The biggest one is not having enough time,” York said.
For Edward Verbeten, who works out at Workout Anytime in Arlington, finding time is all about prioritization.
“You just got to make time. If it’s important to me, I’ll wake up earlier, I’ll go to bed earlier if I have to. So, if you prioritize it, you’ll be able to find the time,” said Verbeten.
Edward restarted his training after a non-life-threatening muscle injury. But as a former marine, he’s had some of the most intensive training in the world. That training includes sticking to the task at hand, so he is confident about reaching his fitness goals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends New Year’s resolutions that focus on managing stress, relaxing, eating healthier and getting at least seven hours of sleep each night.
Keena Parsons is surrounded by family and friends who encourage her to successfully set and complete her New Year’s Resolutions for 2025. On New Year’s Day, she and her best friend talked about resolutions while enjoying lunch at Hershey’s Palace in Arlington.
“I make them every year. But, I actually stick to most of them,” Keena Parsons said.
After a challenging 2024, her goals center on family and finances. Parsons shared her New Year’s Resolution and the people she puts first in her life when it comes to reaching goals and their happiness.
“Make more money,” said Parsons, “Make sure these kids get through college and high school, like family good.”
For Cheatham, the key to success is simple.
“Pick a small goal,” said Cheatham. “Take it in baby steps.”
With 364 days left in the year, many like Cheatham take it one day at a time.