March Goals : How to achieve them
I love March because the days are longer, and the promise of new beginnings is in the air.
If you’ve been in hibernation, or sleep mode, you may find your spring clothes a little tight around the mid-line.
Don’t worry, getting back into your spring and summer wardrobe doesn’t have to be complicated and hard.
Here are some suggestions to get you started :
1) Find something you love. It doesn’t have to be cross fit or boot camp. It can be something fun like yoga, pole dancing, zumba, or kickboxing. If large groups intimidate you why not try private training or small group private training?
2) If you are looking to change your eating habits, make sure whatever you try is safe and sustainable. If you lack energy, and are miserable, please know that this IS NOT normal. Food should be a source of fuel, should nourish your body, and provide you with energy to do the things you love NOT have you feeling depleted, exhausted, and miserable.
3) Remember change is gradual. Although you may want to change 20 habits at once, pick one thing at a time and use the S.M.A.R.T goal formula. S.M.A.R.T is an acronym for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time bound.
=>Specific: Be as specific as possible. Saying things like; “I want to lose weight” is too vague. Your goal needs to be more specific and have a WHY. An example would be; “I want to lose 10 lbs by May 10, 2017 so I can keep up with my kids.” is more specific and has more meaning.
=>Measurable: Is your goal measurable? How will you track and measure your progress? You need a plan. Will you eat well, keep a food journal, or exercise? How many days a week will you exercise and for how long? What will you change specifically about your eating habits? How do you know you are attaining your goal? Will you weigh yourself every 4 weeks, and measure yourself?
=>Attainable: Is your goal attainable? Can you safely lose 10 lbs within the time you specified, example; lose 10 lbs in two months?
=>Realistic: Is your goal realistic? Example: Is it realistic to safely lose 10 lbs in the time specified? (losing 10 lbs in two weeks is NOT a realistic goal).
=Time bound: Does your goal have a start date and a deadline? If you don’t have a deadline, your goal is a dream and not a goal.
Now that you know HOW to set up your goals, you are probably thinking, “How else can I stay motivated?”
Happily, there is a shift, and the fitness industry is slowly changing. There are now smaller studios who offer a more personalized approach and care about their member’s safety. They offer personalized exercise plans, nutrition guidance, and offer some assessments before sending members off into the weight room or group training. They offer motivation and support by checking in regularly to see what’s working, or needs to be adjusted. I have found that people who surround themselves with others who have similar goals tend to do better. Having social support motivates people to show up and keeps them accountable.
In the end, always keep your eye on WHY you want to make a change in first place. Is it because you want to feel better, and are tired of being tired? Is it because you don’t want to live in constant pain anymore? If you journal WHY it is important, it will give your goal meaning and it will inspire you to continue. If you measure and track your progress, it will motivate you to continue.
Most importantly, celebrate the little wins no matter how big or small. You have it within you to achieve your goal.
Always remember you are worth it and change although hard, is possible with the right mindset.
Yours coach in health & fitness,
Anabela