When setting any goal, whether it’s a career, financial or physical goal, there are a few important principles to keep in mind. Let’s look at how to apply these principles to your fitness goals:
S – Specific
M – Measurable
A – Attainable
R – Realistic
T – Time Sensitive
#1: SPECIFIC
A specific goal has a much greater chance of being accomplished than a general one. So, instead of making a general statement such as, “I want to lose weight & get in shape,” be specific. How many pounds do you want to lose? What do you believe is your ideal weight? When you think of being in shape, is there a specific dress or pants size that you have in mind? Be specific.
#2: MEASURABLE
It’s pretty easy to set a measurable fitness goal. Just step on the scales. What do you weigh? What do you want to weigh? What is your clothing size? What size do you want to be? Use a measuring tape to measure your waist, hips, arms, thighs, etc. Write down your measurements, then each week (or month) take new measurements to see if you’re on track with your goal.
#3: ATTAINABLE
If you will take the time to plan and establish a time frame, then almost any goal is attainable. Wise planning allows you to carry out the steps you need to achieve the goal you’ve set for yourself. Think about what steps you’ll need to take and write them down. What is the amount of calories your body burns each day? How many more calories will you need to burn everyday in order to lose one pound? Start replacing your fried, fatty foods with healthy, grilled alternatives. Cut out your soft drinks and learn to drink water instead. Exercise daily and find other ways to move your body more. Little steps like these will help you attain your fitness goal.
#4: REALISTIC
To be realistic, a goal must represent an objective toward which you are both *willing* and *able* to accomplish. You can have a high goal that is also realistic, but make sure to evaluate all your goals to know if they are right for you and your situation. Be realistic about what your ultimate weight loss and clothing size should be. Don’t be pressured by our society to look like a supermodel. Most ladies are not 5’11” and the size of a stick. In fact, that’s usually sickly looking. Seek the Lord about what size He created you to be, then allow Him to strengthen you to reach that weight and size.
#5: TIME SENSITIVE
Set a date for when you want to fully accomplish your weight loss goal. This is a highly motivating step! Perhaps you have a wedding or a class reunion to attend this spring, or maybe you simply want to feel comfortable in a swimsuit this summer. Pick a deadline for shedding those extra pounds, then figure out how many pounds per week you will need to lose in order to ultimately achieve your goal weight. Then get busy!
By keeping these S.M.A.R.T. goal-setting principles in mind (and with the help of the Lord), you will definitely achieve the fitness level you desire!
