One of the top reasons people don’t go to the gym is that they don’t have a goal or are discouraged by their goal. The goals you set make a huge difference on your fitness journey. They can be the difference between a healthier, happier lifestyle and the stress of feeling like healthy is impossible.
Why Fitness Goals Matter
Not that many people go to the gym or live healthy lives just because that’s their natural bent. If you’re trying to make a change, chances are you have some kind of goal. You want to lose weight, have more energy, etc.
Realistic fitness goals are specific goals for what you want to accomplish. These kinds of goals matter because they:
- Help you identify a game plan for action
- Get (and keep) you motivated
- Improve your focus when you’re taking action
- Put the power to change your life in your hands
How to Set Realistic Goals
Goals specific to fitness must be realistic, or they will too easily discourage you or distract you. Some helpful tips for setting realistic fitness goals include:
Play it SMART
A general rule of thumb for creating realistic goals is to apply the acronym SMART. Goals should be:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Attainable
- Relevant
- Time-Bound
Sticking to these traits will make it easier to set goals you can actually reach.
Set Incremental Goals
One big goal can be overwhelming. It’s wise to break goals into short-term and long-term goals. For example, a goal of running a marathon could be split into small goals like:
- Run 5 miles in less than an hour
- Run 4 times a week for 2 months
- Etc.
These smaller “milestone goals” will help you stay on track and motivated.
Make Goals Positive
Instead of expressing your goals negatively, make them positive. For example, don’t aim to “lose weight,” aim to “reach X number of pounds.” This, along with positive support like what a personal trainer offers, will make goal-setting and hard work more encouraging.
Find a Way to Track Your Progress
Realistic goals are measurable. You want to set goals you can track so you are encouraged as you make progress. Plus, if you get off track, having a way to check in on your goals will help you recalculate what to do next.
Making Goals Into a Game Plan
Moving from goal-setting to making a game plan is easier when your goals are realistic. Write down your SMART goal and then make a plan of action that is measurable and specific. It’s okay to bring your written plan to the gym to help you stay on track!
When you’re ready to start reaching your fitness goals, come to Texas Family Fitness and get your FREE 30-Day VIP Pass.
