Short Term Goals

by Percy Cuerpo
(Virginia Beach, VA)

Well, it’s a new year and it’s time to try out that ever famous resolution to get in shape. Let’s try and make it last for a little longer than 2 weeks this time okay?

We can do that by setting some short term goals. Remember, achieving your ultimate fitness goal is a marathon and not a sprint. Just imagine trying to sprint a 25 mile marathon, you’d most likely end up stopping before the first mile! Most people try and “sprint” their way to fitness in the beginning of the year and end up burning out or getting discouraged by the end of the first month. This is why having a game plan consisting of short term goals is so important. Let’s say it’s a way of pacing yourself.

First, think of how healthy and fit you want to be. Next, think realistically on how in shape you can be by the end of March. Now you could set up some short term goals. These goals can be anything from trying to run a mile without stopping, to being able to do 3 sets of 20 pushups.

You can also have a goal of trying to exercise at least 3 times per week for the whole month of January. Healthy eating habits can also be included in these short term goals. This can range from eating healthier during the workweek to cutting out sodas for a month.

Whichever way you want to map out your short term goals, make sure they are achieved by the end of March. If you are able to accomplish this, then you have set your pace and the next 3 months should be a breeze. If you keep persistent at your short term goals, you will realize that your ultimate goal of fitness is not so far away.

Believe in yourself with knowledge of self, anything is possible. Take care and I hope to see you here next time.