Going for the Goal

Last month, I told you about one of four rules my friend Ana and I agreed upon as she sets out to become more fit. They are definitely four rules we all should live by as we work to improve our health. I also promised to come back and discuss the other three rules in more detail.

So let’s go back to Rule No. 1: Set reasonable and measurable goals.

Here are some examples of common goals you may hear:

-I want to lose weight
-I want to feel better
-I want to run a marathon.

All of these lack the specifics that are needed to keep you accountable and, therefore, keep you on track to actually attain them. Remember, goals should be reasonable, which means they will push you beyond your limits but also have a possibility of achievement.

Goals also have to be measurable with a specific endpoint and a specific timeframe. It’s a good idea to tie them to an event or date that has some meaning. That is why so many people find success getting in shape before their wedding or a vacation.

Now let’s update our examples above.

Before: I want to lose weight.
After: I want to lose 10 pounds by my 20th high school reunion in three months.

Before: I want to feel better.
After: In one year’s time, I want to lower my blood pressure and cholesterol levels and work out for at least 30 minutes at least three times a week.

Before: I want to run a marathon.
After: I want to participate in and finish the 26.2 with Donna Breast Cancer Marathon in February 2010.

Setting your goal is the first step. With an end result in mind, you can begin coming up with that weight loss or nutritional plan or begin outlining your marathon-training regime to ensure success.

Remember to follow me on twitter @coachtia or send me an e-mail. Let me know what your new specific and measurable fitness goal is!