HOW TO SET FITNESS GOALS THAT STICK
Whether you have a goal to lose five kilos, or you plan to run your first 5km event, the key to your success is to set clear and concise goals to help get you there. Setting a goal is an essential part of any fitness journey, whether you are new to the gym, or you have been training for years, so we have asked Jennifer Dabbak, Australian Institute of FItness’ Fitness Coach – NSW, to share three top tips to setting health and fitness goals that you WILL stick to.
#1 KEEP ‘EM SMART
Yes, we have all heard about setting SMART goals, aka, Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely goals before, so why do so many people never reach their goals? Well there are a few different reasons, but one reason we see often is when people change too much at once. This is a common goal setting ‘fail,’ and almost ALWAY occurs when New Year’s resolutions kick in. This comes down to the TIMELY and REALISTIC aspects of your goals.
There is no point saying you will loose that five kilos in two weeks, when you are moving house, and starting a new job. Think about what is going on in your life outside of the gym, and take this into consideration when goal setting, and be realistic with your time frames.
#2 GRAB YOURSELF AN ACCOUNTABILITY PARTNER
It’s easy to set a goal. It’s even easy to go into detail and schedule all of your training session you are going to do for the week, but what happens when you miss a training session, or you decide treat yourself to that extra row of chocolate? This is where an accountability partner (aka AP) comes in handy.
Similar to a gym buddy, although they don’t have to be a gym goer, the idea is that you check in with your AP regularly, perhaps once a week, to discuss how you are tracking towards your goal. On the mornings you are lying in bed tossing up between an extra hours sleep in, or hitting the gym, your AP is your muse, send them a text and tell them how you are feeling and get them to remind you WHY you set your goal in the first place. You will jumping out of bed in no time, full of motivation and energy to smash your training session.
#3 SHARE YOUR GOALS WITH THE WORLD
Well, maybe not the world, but tell your friends, family, and work colleagues about your goals. The more people you share your goals with, the more accountable you will become, PLUS you may even inspire those around you to start making healthier choices in their lives. Another great way to share and stay accountable is by posting your workouts or updates on social media. Now sharing your success publicly may feel like you are tooting your own horn, but studies have shown that sharing your success can actually help you accomplish your goals.
While SMART goals have been proven to get you results, having someone to hold you accountable and celebrating your successes with those around you will only increase your chances to accomplish your goals. So the next time you decide to set yourself a new challenge, keep these three things in mind, and become the ultimate GOAL DIGGER!
Author: Jennifer Dabbak from the Australian Institute of Fitness
