One of the main challenges for those starting their fitness journey is setting realistic and achievable fitness goals. Let’s delve into this important topic.
When it comes to getting in shape, many people turn to physical exercise as one of the most efficient ways to achieve their fitness goals. However, getting into the exercise routine is not as simple as it may seem.
As a fitness coach, I want to guide you on how to establish realistic and achievable fitness goals. Please continue reading.
How to Set Fitness Goals
Reaching fitness goals becomes even more challenging when you set overly ambitious targets. Avoid setting unattainable goals in short timeframes, as they can lead to discouragement and early abandonment of your fitness journey.
The first thing to consider is your current fitness level. This will help determine the type of goals you should set and provide a starting point for measuring your progress.
That’s why it’s essential to work with an experienced trainer from the beginning. They can perform simple tests to evaluate your physical condition, allowing you to set short, medium, and long-term goals.
Likewise, some individuals who are used to an active lifestyle may be capable of self-assessing their physical condition and setting achievable goals.
Based on this initial assessment, whether you’re a beginner or an expert, it’s crucial to set achievable short-term goals, achievable in just a few weeks or a couple of months.
What this means is that someone who has never dedicated themselves to daily exercise routines will find it impossible to lose 20 kilograms in a month or prepare for a marathon in three weeks.
What Are Realistic and Achievable Fitness Goals?
Most achievable goals involve losing one or two kilograms in a short time, increasing muscle strength or endurance proportionally, or gradually improving your diet and transitioning to healthier foods.
Of course, long-term goals will be the most challenging to achieve. Examples include mastering long-distance cycling, becoming an advanced weightlifter, or excelling in complex workout routines.
Once you’ve established your goals, you need to create a plan to help you achieve them. For instance, if you aim to master complex workout routines, you should start by training for at least 40 minutes daily. Over time, you’ll build strength, endurance, pain tolerance, and, subsequently, master more complex and efficient exercises to reach your required goals.
Having a plan doesn’t just refer to implementing exercise initiatives; it often involves planning for rest and diet alongside your exercise routine.
When we mention diet, we’re not solely talking about restricting food or reducing meal frequency throughout the day. In some cases, these diets may require an increase in protein or carbohydrates to build adequate reserves for competition.
How to Establish Realistic and Achievable Fitness Goals
Having a work plan will help keep you motivated and focused on your goals. Consistency will undoubtedly yield optimal results for what you’re striving to achieve, but the key to it all is discipline.
To reach achievable goals, it’s a good idea to write them down and set a deadline for making them a reality. Studies have shown that constantly monitoring your goals will motivate you more than just having them in mind.
At times, sharing these objectives with training buddies or close family members can also be a successful strategy. They can provide motivation and positive pressure to keep you on track.
Achieving fitness goals will be much easier if you have a trustworthy coach by your side, whether through personalized virtual or in-person training. Your fitness coach will play a crucial role in your journey.
Undoubtedly, the path to your goals will be challenging at times, and it’s normal to have days when you’re not motivated, whether due to personal, work-related, mental, or weather-related factors. However, if you keep your goals in sight, you’re sure to achieve them.
Let me accompany you on this journey. We can develop a plan tailored to your reality, containing realistic and achievable fitness goals.
