FitnessIsKarma Staff Setting goals is something which has not only evolved humanity but even evolution of lifeform is knowingly or unknowingly a result of setting ambitious and SMART goals. Hence, setting goals is inscribed deep in our DNA, simple proof of that is when ever we set a goals, any goal small or big but you take that step and achieve it, we all have a rush of emotions and kick from the achievement.
I know, your are now trying to recollect one, but its not that hard. If you caught hold of that emotion in your memory just take that as a reference and if you haven’t then you are being too hard on yourself, the kick from achievement doesn’t have to be extraordinarily big, even cleaning your bed or taking your laundry on time or even reaching on time to an important meeting gives you that rush and kick, we just seem to miss noticing and enjoying those moments in this large scheme of social comparisons that we now call as life.
By now you must be having a smaller, equal or even bigger reference of that rush and kick you felt, and the beauty of it is bigger the effort bigger the kick and bigger the remembrance. Now let’s establish the fact that we all want to achieve similar kick and rush in our fitness journey but due to multiple reasons or rather excuses we have not been able to achieve that (this is again respective to individual), hence you landed on this post.
So lets understand how can I make a goal which in itself is helpful and gives me a roadmap to achieve it, there is a goal setting strategy called as SMART that is getting used since decades in business world and is also very relevant at individual level as well. [S.M.A.R.T. Fitness Goals]
SMART Stands for
Specific. Measurable. Achievable. Relevant. Time-bound.
When applied to fitness goals, this framework provides a clear and structured approach to goal setting, making it easier to track progress and stay motivated. But can you as an individual can create SMART goals that will aid you in your fitness journey, lets deep dive and see how each of the above can be realized and manifested in a form of an overall personalized goal, certified to be SMART and create S.M.A.R.T. Fitness Goals.
Specific – As name suggests, start by defining your fitness goals with precision. Instead of vague statements like “I want to get in shape,” be specific about what you want to achieve. For example, “I want to lose 3 kgs of body fat and increase my muscle mass.” Making a goal specific is the key, clearer the specification, higher the chances of achieving it. Being specific is that ray of light at the end of tunnel that will keep you going in hard times.
Measurable – This will give you a clear picture of your success rate as here you will be defining how that success looks like. Imagine it as an empty glass whose goal is to be full and the only way it is able to measure its goal completion rate is how much of liquid is poured in that glass. words used like increase and decrease or improve and reduce backed up with a numerical can be a good way to start. Ensure that your goals are measurable so that you can track your progress over time. This could involve tracking your weight, body measurements, or fitness performance using quantifiable metrics.
Achievable – You should be able to find that SWEET SPOT, that optimum place for action. The goal should not be very easy or too hard, if the goal is easy you will not get that kick as there was minimal to 0 effort in achieving it, and if the goal was too tough to crack you will end up blaming yourself and complaining that you should have never even bothered to start. So you should be able to devise that optimal range for yourself based on your current fitness level, lifestyle and available resources. Don’t lie to yourself or promise something fancy else you will not be able to believe it and result will most likely be negative. While it’s essential to challenge yourself, setting overly ambitious goals can lead to frustration and burnout.
Relevant – It might not be directly reflecting in your goal for someone else who reads it but you should be able to relate with it very closely. If what you are planning to do is of no relevance or significance to you in long term goal, in our case “your ultimate fitness form” you will find it hard to sustain and continue with your goal. Your fitness goals should align with your values, priorities, and long-term objectives. Consider how achieving these goals will positively impact other areas of your life and contribute to your overall well-being.
Time-Bound – Give yourself a deadline to work towards, which adds a sense of urgency and accountability to your goals. Whether it’s a week, a month, or a year, having a specific timeframe will help you stay focused and motivated.
Now lets put our theory to test and create some S.M.A.R.T. fitness goals –
- Lose 3 KGs to decrease my body fat by 1% in 1 month
- Will practice push-ups daily to hit 10 clean and consecutive push-ups by end of March xxxx
- To run a 5K race in under 30 mins within next 3 months
Also read: How not to skip your workouts [S.M.A.R.T. Fitness Goals]
Creating a SMART fitness plan – S.M.A.R.T. Fitness Goals
Once you have created your SMART goal, almost a blue print is ready for you to believe in it; so visualize it, break it into smaller actionable steps and identify the resource or support you need to achieve it. Whether it’s joining a gym, hiring a personal trainer, or meal prepping, take proactive steps to set yourself up for success.
Track progress, fixed reviews and adjust your plan –
Regularly monitor your progress towards your SMART fitness goals and adjust your plan as needed. Review your actions vs results, Celebrate your successes along the way, no matter how small, and use setbacks as learning opportunities to refine your approach.
Conclusion: S.M.A.R.T. Fitness Goals
Setting SMART fitness goals is a powerful strategy for turning your aspirations into tangible achievements. By following this framework, you can create a clear roadmap to success, stay motivated, and ultimately, transform your health and fitness for the better.
What are your SMART fitness goals for the upcoming month or year? Share them in the comments below and let’s support each other on our fitness journeys. Because, we can turn our aspirations into reality and achieve our full potential. IGNITE. TRANFORM. REPEAT.
