How S.M.A.R.T. Are Your Goals?

We all know when it comes to improving our health and fitness, setting goals is a necessary process.  But are your goals effective?  Are they helping you achieve success?  Or could they actually be hurting your progress?

The acronym S.M.A.R.T. has long been used by psychologists to help individuals remember important characteristics of engaging in behaviors through goal setting, focusing on the overall process and outcome of a desired activity.  Take a few minutes and use the S.M.A.R.T. method to see how your goals are measuring up!

Specific goals provide enough detail to identify the action required to accomplish the goal.  Good example:  To eat at least three servings of vegetables a day.  Bad example: To be healthier.

Measurable goals identify what tasks are to be accomplished and when they have been reached.  Good example:  To lose 15 lbs by February 1^st.  Bad example:  To lose weight.

Attainable goals focus on activity that will produce results.  Good example:  To walk three times per week for 10 minutes.  Bad example: To get into shape.

Realistic goals refer to the practicality of reaching desired outcomes.  Good example:  To walk for 30 minutes at lunchtime.  Bad example:  To run 20 miles a day.

Time-Anchored goals enable individuals to monitor progress at regular intervals.  Good example:  To lift weights 2 times a week for a month.  Bad example:  To lift weights 2 times a week. 

Hopefully your goals are S.M.A.R.T. ones!  If not, take the time to re-evaluate them and make them more effective.  Remember our PROMATx trainers are always available to help you set and reach your health and fitness goals!