2026 New Year’s Resolutions & Local Ways to Stick With Them



New Year’s resolutions are easy to make, but they’re notoriously hard to keep. The trick isn’t “more motivation,” it’s building a routine that fits your real life. Luckily, the Redmond community makes that easy, with miles of trails, iconic parks, and local businesses that turn good intentions into repeatable habits.

Below are four popular New Year’s resolutions you may be striving for, plus specific Redmond spots and community resources that help you follow through.

1) Resolution: “Get Fit / Move More”

If your goal is to improve your health, the best plan is one you can repeat. Mix structured classes (for accountability) with easy, low-friction movement (for consistency). Even the smallest activity can help you start the journey to a more active lifestyle.
 

A) YogaSix Redmond (structured, repeatable fitness)

If you want a routine that builds strength, flexibility, and momentum, try YogaSix Redmond. This yoga studio has a consistent schedule and multiple class formats, so it’s easier to stay on track when life gets busy. We here at the Colony at Bear Creek are big fans of yoga and this studio in particular. In fact, we host classes with YogaSix certified instructors on our property throughout the year! It's just one of the many perks our residents can take advantage of.

Address: 7425 166th Ave NE, C245 Redmond, WA 98052

Quick habit tip: Pick two fixed days each week (example: Tue/Thu) and treat them like meetings you don’t cancel.
 

B) Farrel-McWhirter Park (movement that feels fun, not forced)

When you want a workout that doesn’t feel like a sweat session, head to Farrel-McWhirter Park for its multi-use trails. Here you'll even find an orienteering course, a surprisingly addictive way to “gamify” your steps.

Try this simple schedule to start:
- Weekday: 25–35 minute brisk walk
​- Weekend: “orienteering challenge” + a longer trail loop
 

C) Make it effortless at home

If your biggest barrier is time, lean on home-base convenience. Whether you’re working from home and using a walk pad or simply want to stroll through your surrounding neighborhoods, your home is a great place to start reaching your health goals!

Luckily, residents at The Colony have access to a variety of indoor/outdoor features and Bear Creek amenities to help build a simple routine.
 

2) Resolution: “Spend More Time Outdoors”

This resolution gets easier when you stop thinking about it as an “event” and start making it a default.

Redmond has 59 miles of public trails (with many owned/operated by the city), which means you can get outside without a long drive or complicated planning.
 

A) Redmond Central Connector Park (easy, repeatable miles)

The Redmond Central Connector Park is a paved trail corridor that runs through key parts of the city making it perfect for walking, jogging, or biking when you’re building consistency. Spanning nearly 4 miles across Redmond, Sammamish, and other local neighborhoods, Central Connector is a great place to explore. Plus, the trail provides access to shopping districts so a morning stroll can turn into a coffee run!

Try this:
- 20 minutes outdoors on weekdays
​- Weekend: One longer weekend walk or ride (coffee afterward = instant reward)
 

B) East Lake Sammamish Trail (scenic walking route)

For a lakeside scenic option, the East Lake Sammamish Trail runs along the eastern shore of Lake Sammamish and connects through Redmond. This trail is great for longer walks, and you’ll feel like one with nature in no time.

And if you’re a pet owner, check out our blog post about other popular dog friendly parks in Redmond!
 

C) Redmond Watershed Preserve (nature reset)

If your resolution is less screen time and more forest time, Redmond Watershed Preserve is an ideal local escape with a true “deep breath” vibe. This is a great way to decompress from the hustle and bustle of the city. Plus, it's just a short drive from the community so you won't have to make any big plans, just hop in the car and go!

Try this: Have a monthly "nature reset" walk schedule and make it the same weekend each month, so it becomes automatic.

 

3) Resolution: “Eat Healthier (But Treat Yourself)”

“Eating healthier” works when you make the healthy choice an easy choice; this starts with what you buy. But remember, you don't have to sacrifice your guilty pleasures. So enjoy that post dinner sweet treat, just make sure to hold yourself accountable and indulge in moderation. Below are some local resources to help you in this health journey!
 

A) Redmond Saturday Market (make healthy food feel like a treat)

A Saturday market habit can quietly transform your week. Starting in May, the Redmond Saturday Market is a great way to build a routine around fresh ingredients and local vendors. Plus, it’s a great way to support your community!

Try this:
- Buy ingredients for two easy meals then repeat weekly when you find your recipe
​- Add one “essential” fruit/veg to your list each week and maybe even explore new flavors
 

B) PCC Community Markets (quick healthy defaults)

If you want a reliable option for quality staples and easy upgrades, PCC’s Redmond store is a strong go-to for keeping your fridge stocked with healthier alternatives to your typical grocery list.

Try this: Choose a weekday “default lunch” (salad + protein, soup + toast, etc.) and repeat it for two weeks straight.

Want more local food inspiration for nights you don’t feel like cooking? Check out these 8 Must-Try Redmond Restaurants.

 

4) Resolution: “Learn Something New (and Meet More People)”

Many people set goals like “try new things,” “make friends,” or “get out more.” The easiest way to follow through is to join something recurring. This can include being involved in an organization, joining a club, or simply meeting people with the same interests as you at a local gathering.
 

A) Redmond Senior & Community Center (classes + groups)

Your neighborhood offers exercise, interest groups, art/music classes, workshops, and events through the Redmond Senior & Community Center. It’s an easy way to try something new with a built-in community. The center is also a great place to share your love for creativity with others.

 

B) Redmond Central Connector Trail parkrun (weekly, free, beginner-friendly)

As we mentioned above, the Redmond Central Connector Trail is a great place for exercising, but that’s not all.  If you like the idea of meeting people without awkward small talk, parkrun is perfect: it’s a free weekly 5K where you can walk, jog, or run at your own pace. This event takes place every Saturday at 9:00am, so mark your calendar!

 

C) Local running groups (accountability without the pressure)

If you want a social routine that keeps you consistent, local run groups often host recurring meetups in and around downtown Redmond. It’s an easy way to set a “same day, same time” habit and you could even meet your new running mate.

 

Make Your Resolution Routine Even Easier in the Redmond Area

New year, new habits mean one small choice at a time. Whether you’re aiming to move more, get outside for a mental reset, cook a little healthier, or finally try something new, Redmond makes it easy to turn goals into a routine you’ll actually enjoy. 

Here at The Colony at Bear Creek, our new year resolution is to continuously provide the best experience and quality of life for our residents. Whether we’re hosting yoga classes on-site with certified instructors or planning community meet and greets to help our neighbors connect, we’re dedicated to all who stop by or find their new home with us. 

 Looking for more local guides like this? Check out all our blogs at The Bear Creek Bulletin!