Getting in Shape by Setting Goals

Have you ever started a workout regimen and then after a couple of months you were feeling no better than before you started.

I have certainly been there. So what separates those who are seemingly able to look fit, feel fit, and be healthy for a significant amount of time from anyone else? Quite simply, it's a combination of things - genetics, nutritional factors, lifestyle habits, and personal choice. And what drives some of these people from day to day to make choices that most of us can't or won't? Quite simply, setting goals.

Having a goal directs your energy and gives meaning to what you are doing.  The problem is that most of us don't know how to set proper goals for ourselves.

Here are some tips:

• Start      small: Save the marathon for next      year. For now, concentrate on walking around the block without stopping.
• Be      realistic: Unless you chop off one of      your legs, you won't lose 10 pounds in 2 days (a safe average weight loss      rate is about 1 to 3 pounds per week).
• Be      specific about your goals:      The statement "I want to be fit" could be changed into "I      want to be able to carry my groceries up the stairs, and put them away by      myself, without having to sit and recover afterwards.
• Make      your goals measurable: You      could walk the mall for hours, but seeing how far you can walk or      run in a specific amount of time is the motivating factor.

With a solid set of goals in place, getting in shape will be a lot less frustrating and a lot more enjoyable!

Remember: “When you don’t know where you’re going, any road will take you there.” – unknown

Health and happiness,

Kriss