Start Strong in 2026: 5 Leveled Up New Year's Resolutions from Fitness Legends

As another year comes to a close, new year's resolutions might be top of mind. But why fall back on the same old thing? Work out more. Get in shape. We certainly commend those on a health and fitness journey, but we think you'll be much more likely to stick to your goals if you pick something specific that lights a fire for the year ahead.

So we want you to pause, take a breath, and ask yourself: What would you do this year if you were strong enough? To get those creative juices flowing, here are five resolutions from REP strength partners—think elite lifter Davis Diley and World Record-holding athlete Mike Aidala. We asked them for advice to achieve big strength dreams this year, and to create training plans that will actually help you get it done.

So here's how it works: Find a goal that speaks to you. Commit to the plan with your coach. Give the finger to Quitter's Day on January 9th. Watch what amazing things can happen when you pursue your strength. 

Happy New Year, ya filthy animals!

1. Improve your big 3 lifts by 25% with Davis Diley

If you've been plateuing in the gym, this plan will help you build real, measurable strength. Diley breaks down his best training advice to throw up big numbers on your bench, squat, and deadlift.

Read the article: How to Improve Your Big 3 Lifts by 25% with Davis Diley

2. Climb an actual mountain with James Jackson

Jackson, the face of Wandering Weights, is prepping to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in 2027. This will be his highest summit to date and he's shared his best training tips, from mindset to exercise programming, that will get him to the summit.

Read the article: How to Climb a Mountain with James Jackson

3. Learn how to eat like an athlete with Dr. Clay Moss

As adults, it feels like we should have mastered the art of eating a healthy diet. But in reality, it's confusing as heck to figure out how to do it right—without feeling miserable or avoiding foods we love. In fact, a recent consumer report found that 65% of Americans feel more confident filing their taxes than choosing supplements. Enter Dr. Clay Moss: Nutrition expert for our sister brand, Purist. He helped us finally crack the code on eating for performance, health, and happiness.

Read the article: How to Eat Like an Athlete with Dr. Clay Moss

4. Get really REALLY good at pull-ups with Demi Bagby

This might look simple on the surface, but reall ones know pull-ups are freaking hard, especially for folks pursuing their first unassisted pull-up. Demi Bagby is a world-class athlete and pull-up master. She's got some creative tips for finally nailing your first pull-up or, for those who need a bigger challenge, progressions that will test your training and torch your upper body.

Read the article: How To Get Really REALLY Good at Pull-Ups with Demi Bagby

5. Train to break a record with Mike Aidala

If you're unfamiliar with Mike Aidala, just take a moment to Google him and watch some of his many world record lifts and feats of incredible strength and determination. In 2025 he made the 255-pound world record single arm turkish get-up look like his warm-up, was previously the world record holder for most weight lifted by Turkish get-up in one hour, and has tackled over 20 ultramarathons with more coming down the pipeline. If you're looking for that competitive edge to take you from good to great, Mike's your guy.

Read the article: How to Train to Break a Record with Mike Aidala

Takeaway

This is your year to get strong, get fast, fuel right, and reach whatever goals you've got percolating. Be sure to set the goals you're looking to tackle, structure your training or routine to support those goals, and make small, daily efforts that help move the needle. Check out how REP's roster of experts train for their goals and then get moving on your own!

Ashley Boyer is the Editor in Chief of REP Fitness. She's an ACE-CPT and master's candidate in Sports Performance and Conditioning at Southern Utah University. When not training for obstacle course races, you can find her hanging with her dogs or binging history documentaries.

This article was reviewed by Rosie Borchert, NASM-CPT, for accuracy.