The New Year, aka when everyone signs up for a gym membership, swears off carbs and sugar, and vows to finally get in shape — for real this time.

That way of thinking isn't always the healthiest, though. Going too hard, too fast isn't good for your body, mind, or emotional state. It's easy to create lofty goals that are impossible to stick too, and then feel crushed when you aren't able to keep up with this new, outrageous pace.

So in 2024, we propose this: Focus on what makes you feel good, and then find a way to move your body with that activity.

No ultimatums, no impossible goals, just exercise that's fun and enjoyable to actually do. In Dallas-Fort Worth, here are five currently popular activities that will still be hot in 2024.

Pickleball
This tennis/badminton/ping pong hybrid is easy to learn and a blast for all ages and fitness abilities to play, and has a built-in social aspect that usually includes snacks, drinks, and socializing.

Go easy on the fried apps and focus more on finding teammates who'll approach the sport with a good attitude. Whether you're a true beginner or have been a 'baller since 2023, there are plenty of courts in DFW to check out — we're kind of pickleball central, if you didn't already know.

Hiking
Look, hiking doesn't always have to mean walking sticks and Camelbacks for day-long hydration. In North Texas, it can mean city trails and nature preserves that offer up easy-to-medium routes, and can be fun for the whole family to visit.

Cooler temps encourage outdoor activity, and as long as the trails aren't icy then you're bound to encounter plenty of other folks out walking, jogging, rollerblading, and even bicycling. Here are some of the best places to hike in DFW.

Golf
Frisco is now home to the PGA of America headquarters, and so DFW has likewise become spoiled for choice when it comes to public golf courses.

If you haven't checked out the two new courses at the Omni PGA Frisco Resort, they're definitely worth scheduling a tee time or two. You can even brush up your swing at the Fields Ranch Practice Facility or go easy at The Swing, a 10-hole course. Here are eight other public golf courses in DFW to check off your list.

Yoga + meditation
Regular yoga and meditation can "create mental clarity and calmness, increase body awareness, relieve chronic stress patterns, relax the mind, center attention, and sharpen concentration," according to the American Osteopathic Association.

If any or all of those benefits sound awesome to you, drop in at one of DFW's many, many yoga studios. Some even combine an all-around approach to wellness, like Le Sol. The house-plus-chateau club not only offers wellness classes that are open to the public, but members get to enjoy space to work, a cafe, and curated events.

Trying new things
Be brave in the New Year. Stretch yourself with climbing at Movement, train like the Dallas Cowboys, aim to run a 5K, or finally try Crossfit (instead of just joking about it).

Class Pass is excellent for this, because it lets you test out everything from pilates to cycling and boxing to barre without actually committing to one studio or style of workout. Plus you can always use a credit to book a massage if you go a little too hard one session.

No matter what workout you choose to try, remember that moving your body is not a punishment — endorphins are real and yes, you will always feel better after you raise your heart rate.