Right now, many people are contemplating their 2011 New Year's resolutions. Many fitness resolutions die within the first four weeks of a new year for many different reasons. One obvious reason behind such failures is that the goals behind these resolutions are not S.M.A.R.T. in nature. A powerful tool to use when attempting goals involving health & fitness is to make sure that the goal(s) created are S.M.A.R.T.
This can be defined as follows:
Specific
Measurable
Attainable
Relevant
Time-bound
Goals set without these five parameters tend to be poorly defined and therefore, proper direction and focus towards attainment is lost. Breaking down each component more specifically means:
Specific goals recognize why it is being created, the benefits of it, who is involved, what needs to be accomplished and where it will be accomplished.
Measurable means that with progression towards the goal, there should be a means to monitor progress. If there is no measurement procedure, then it is difficult to tell if one is on track to meet the goal, or if efforts have to be redirected.
Attainable means that the goal being set forth must be achievable. Many failed attempts to reach a goal surround the fact that it was not realistic in nature. When an attainable goal is set, it is much easier to visualize attainment, stay motivated and persevere in the efforts required. Think about the person you know that swears they are going to hit the gym every day for two hour workouts. That is not achievable for most and will lead to certain burnout. Less really is more as consistent, realistic progress leads to success. Remember that smaller goals always add up to bigger ones.
Relevant means that the goal should surround the needs and abilities of the person attempting it. If you find yourself to be rather uncoordinated, then perhaps stay away from heavily choreographed group fitness or dance classes. If you love cycling, then include group cycling classes, stationary bike or other cycling activities to keep things relevant.
Time-bound means that there should be a time fence established on the goal. If one wishes to lose 5 lbs, but does not define a time frame for doing so, then incremental steps to achieving it cannot be clearly established. Making efforts time-bound helps build in accountability.
If you are gearing up to an improved you next year, then try the S.M.A.R.T. strategy and improve your chances of success.
