Setting the Stage for Success: How to Create Achievable Fitness Goals

There’s no question — exercise is good for you. As the CDC reports, it can reduce disease risk, boost brain health and keep you at a healthy weight, and that’s just for starters. Virtually everyone can reap rewards from regular exercise, regardless of gender, age, or body type. There are many types of exercise so it’s easy to find something you enjoy and keep your routine diverse.

Setting S.M.A.R.T. Fitness Goals

When setting any goal, remember the acronym S.M.A.R.T. These letters stand for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This system can help you create a fitness regimen that’s easy to follow, track, and do, that meets your needs within a specific amount of time. For example, you might go to the gym for a 45-minute workout three times weekly and journal each time you do. To meet S.M.A.R.T. goal criteria, you’d do exercises that fit your goals. Regular exercise transforms the body over time so the time-bound portion of the S.M.A.R.T. system is handled if you stick to your workouts.

More Tips for Fitness Success

Try to work enjoyable activities into your fitness routine. According to the American Heart Association, people tend to stick to workouts that they like doing. This association recommends a minimum of 150 minutes weekly of moderate activity— a good starting point for beginners. If you have trouble getting started, choose your exercise outfit ahead of time and lay it out with your athletic shoes in clear view so you can dress quickly and head for the door. Fill a reusable water bottle and keep it in the fridge to grab on your way to the gym or other workout destination.