Setting Running and Fitness goals

by Coach Briody
(NY)

How to Set Running & Fitness Goals





Fitness goals are something thousands of people set out to accomplish each day. Why do they fail? Making promises to yourself to go to the gym everyday is not a goal. More specifically, it is not a clear goal. Even actually going to the gym everyday is not a goal. Let's simplify and divide goals into 3 groups: physical, nutritional, and behavioral.

• Physical Goal: What is it that you want to change physically about your body? Is it your appearance, strength, flexibility or perhaps, endurance? Or maybe, the physical goal is to fit into your favorite pair of jeans that have become a bit too snug. You get the idea.

• Nutritional Goal: You want to change your eating habits. Eat less processed foods or perhaps maybe not eat late at night. Most of us can find ways to improve in this area. Eating a well-balanced diet is essential for changing body composition. A diet rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber, such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins such as chicken and fish, and healthy fats such as virgin olive oil and nuts are a surefire way to give the body the proper fuel it needs. Eating smaller portions coupled with eating every few hours optimizes your metabolism and keeps you energized all day long! Simple, yes?

• Behavioral Goals: This is an important part of the overall "fitness goal" process and is often overlooked. Examples are, getting enough sleep, quitting smoking, consuming less alcohol. These are behaviors that will have a direct impact on how we can stay on track. Quite often a positive change in behavior will have a positive impact on how we look and feel.

Now that we have sorted it out, take 3 index cards, and on each of them write down your same 3 goals on each. Be precise. One goes in your wallet or purse, the next on or in the fridge, and the third in a drawer that you open everyday. These will serve as your reminders of your targets.

  1. Plan your goals: How will you achieve them?
  2. Benchmark Progress: Seeing small steps toward the target will keep you motivated.
  3. Make your goals attainable. Be realistic.
  4. Plan training: Make an appointment with yourself for training and find a workout routine that will keep you inspired. Be sure to add exercise variety to your workouts.
  5. Set goals that are measurable: Lower body fat, slimmer waistline, lower cholesterol, faster mile etc.
  6. If resources allow it, seek guidance from a qualified personal trainer and/or dietitian.

With clear fitness targets and a proper plan you can easily stick with and accomplish your fitness goals.

By Coach Briody ACE certified Personal Trainer


Click here to post comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Goals and achievements.



FTC Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying  purchases.
Learn more.

NEW FEATURE - DISQUS COMMENTS!

Be the first to comment.
Login using Facebook, Twitter, Google or Disqus.

Loading Comments
#disqus_thread { min-height: 200px; }

Recent Articles

  1. 5 Ways Mindfulness Can Enhance Your Running

    Aug 25, 23 10:31 AM

    Enhance Your Running

    Discover how mindfulness can enhance your running experience. Elevate your focus and running performance with this transformative technique.

    Read More

  2. How to Enjoy Runner's High More Often

    Jul 16, 23 10:12 AM

    Enjoy Runners High More Often

    Unlock the secret to experiencing runners high more often with our tips. Elevate your runs to new heights and embrace the joy of running

    Read More

  3. How to Change Limiting Beliefs

    Jun 28, 23 12:47 PM

    Change Limiting Beliefs

    Do you have a limiting belief that is contributing to your running injuries and preventing you from achieving your full potential?

    Read More

  4. Running with the Hash House Harriers

    Jun 05, 23 08:13 AM

    Hash House Harriers

    If you have never trying running with the Hash House Harriers, you could really be missing out on a great adventure!

    Read More

  5. Second toes black nail

    May 09, 23 10:58 AM

    I would appreciate any idea or tip(s) so as to overcome second toe black nails on my right and left foot under certain circumstances. Given the following:

    Read More

  6. A Common Barefoot Running Injury

    May 01, 23 02:20 PM

    Common Barefoot Running Injury

    This common barefoot running injury can be avoided when you know the cause and how to prevent it. And I know this from experience!

    Read More

  7. How to Overcome Race Performance Anxiety

    Apr 14, 23 01:27 PM

    Race Performance Anxiety

    How does race performance anxiety affect you? Are you feeling excited and looking forward to the race you’ve been training for, or do you just wish it was over?

    Read More

  8. Where to run in Hurghada, Egypt!

    Apr 04, 23 06:14 AM

    Running in Hurghada

    Running in a new area is both exciting and a little scary. What will I see during this run? What will I discover? Hurghada kindly provided a few surprises and a hidden 'trail'!

    Read More

  9. The Best Way to Carry Your Phone While Running!

    Mar 21, 23 11:51 AM

    Phone Holder for Running

    Do you wish there was a simpler, more discreet way to carry even your large phone while running? Are you frustrated with phone carriers for runners that are bulky and uncomfortable?

    Read More

  10. The Link Between Nutrition and Exercise Performance: Healthy Habits for Runners

    Mar 08, 23 08:07 AM

    Nutrition and Exercise

    A nutritionally balanced body is essential to a runner’s health and performance. Enhance your overall performance with these healthy habits to support the physical pressures experienced during runnin…

    Read More