Finding it hard to stay on track and losing sight of your end goal? Get S.M.A.R.T

Setting goals is a great way to stay focused, but thinking S.M.A.R.T will help you to achieve them. S.M.A.R.T is an acronym used to guide you to  set the ‘stage’ if you like,  to create your pathway to success in achieving your health and fitness goals. It works by mapping out your journey following the below.

S: Specific. What is your goal?

M: Measurable. How will you measure your success?

A: Attainable. Set realistic goals that challenge you but are achievable.

R: Relevant. Ensure you goal is results-orientated.

T: Time-Bound. Set a clear deadline and monitor your progress.

 

But, remember these few things when setting your S.M.A.R.T goals,

 

It’s a marathon not a sprint

It is important to focus goal setting on small changes which build up over time. After all, you wouldn’t run a marathon without training and gradually building up your stamina.

 

Try not to achieve too much at once

Do not be too hard on yourself, set smaller achievable goals allowing yourself the space and time to adapt to a new routine, this way you will build the foundations you need to stick to your plan and it will soon become part of your lifestyle.

 

Be adaptable, not restrictive

For example, if you are looking to change your diet, the best approach is to have a little of what you fancy instead of completely restricting yourself from things that you enjoy. Completely restricting yourself and banning certain foods may be okay for a few weeks but will not be sustainable for the long-term and will have you craving these foods even more.

 

Choose things you enjoy

Whether that be food or taking part in certain exercises, if you force yourself to do an activity/exercise or eat foods you do not enjoy you will find it very challenging to stay on track.

 

Do not obsess about the number on the scales

If your goal is fat-loss of even muscle gain, do not obsess over the number on the scale, both fat-loss and muscle gain take time therefore it is important not to become too frustrated by this. Pictures are a good way to track progress and there are more than likely areas of improvement that you are not noticing until looking back on previous images. Also using a measurable activity, such as how far could you initially walk without getting out of breath?, or even, what weights were you able to lift following correct form and technique compared to what you can do now.

Most of all, it is your journey, enjoy it!