Your guide to realistic health goals in 2025
As we bid farewell to the gluttonous holiday season, the New Year’s ambitious health goals start creeping in. Instead of being overwhelmed or anxious, the American Medical Association suggests effective wellness goals that lie in simple, sustainable changes.
Here are four evidence-based strategies that can help build lasting healthy habits:
Move more, watch less
Looking for a simple way to kickstart your health goals next year? Put down the remote. Recent research highlighted by the AMA suggests that simply swapping screen time for a daily walk can have a lasting impact on health. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly. That breaks down to just a little more than 20 minutes a day of moderate movement.
Sayonara, processed foods
Rather than viewing healthy eating as a chore, try turning meal prep into a family bonding experience. Research shows children who help prepare meals tend to make better dietary choices, creating a positive ripple effect on family health.
Prioritize quality rest
“Even small, positive choices you make now can have a big impact on your long-term well-being,” AMA president Bruce A. Scott said in a news release. One of those choices should be prioritizing sleep. The AMA recommends at least 7.5 hours per night, complemented by stress management techniques — whether through a calming bedtime routine or professional mental health support.
Tech-smart health monitoring
Taking control of your health has never been easier, thanks to technological advances. The AMA recommends using validated blood pressure monitoring devices (which can be verified at ValidateBP.org) and taking advantage of online health screening tools to help identify potential concerns before they escalate.
New Year’s in Atlanta
How late can your Atlanta neighbors shoot fireworks?
Celebrate New Year’s Eve 2024 at these metro Atlanta restaurants
Easy ways to recycle your Christmas tree in metro Atlanta
15 things to do this weekend: menorah and Kwanzaa festivities
Where to find Atlanta’s most vibrant Kwanzaa celebrations
Where to see the biggest holiday light shows near Atlanta
Hungry at the Atlanta airport? Places to eat, organized for each concourse
Georgia’s Possum Drop ranked one of the best ways to ring in 2025
Here’s what you need to know about New Year’s Eve drinking – and Jan. 1 hangovers
Atlanta airport tips: Parking, security lines and other things to know


