A Proven 5-Step Framework For Setting And Achieving Health Goals: The SMARTER Way!
If you’ve been thinking about upcoming summer, was your first impulse to get fit?
But, what does it really mean?
When running groups, I pair participants to use the SMART goal framework and challenge each other to see if their goal is smart and effective enough.
When starting out, you need to be specific about the path you want to create and follow through it.
Answer the questions of who, what, where, when, why, and how. Break it down using the following:
Specific: “I want to get fit” is too vague. Your goal should be clear and specific. Instead, try “I want to run a 5k.”
Measurable: Define it in a way so that you can track your progress and see whether you’ve achieved it. Have a way to quantify it, such as using numbers or metrics. “I want to be able to run a 5k in under 30 minutes.”
Achievable: Make it challenging enough to motivate you and keep it realistic given your circumstances. “I want to run a 5k in under 30 minutes by running 3 times a week and gradually increasing my distance each week.”
Relevant: Align it with your overall health goals and values. “I want to run a 5k in under 30 minutes within 3 months to improve my cardiovascular health.”
Time-bound: Give yourself a deadline to create accountability and a sense of urgency. “I want to run a 5k in under 30 minutes within 3 months by running 3 times a week and gradually increasing my distance each week.”
A SMARTER goal for “I want to get fit” could be:
“I want to run a 5k in under 30 minutes within 3 months by running 3 times a week and gradually increasing my distance each week, in order to improve my cardiovascular health.”
What is your current health goal?
