How-To-Set-Effective-Fitness-and-Performance-Goals-MagMile-CrossFitGoals are an essential part of improving your fitness. However, not all goals are created equal. Some goals are likely to set you up for success, while others may cause you to miss your mark.

Here are a few tips on how to set effective fitness and performance goals that increase your chances of reaching your target:

1. Be Specific.

Goals like “get fit” or “lose weight” or “lift more” are common. But how do you know when you’re fit? How much weight do you want to lose? What lifts do you want to focus on so you can lift heavier?

Vague goals will lead you nowhere. You’ll be chasing the same goals for months – maybe years. Make your goals more effective by being specific. Define what you mean by get fit, lose weight, or lift more. For example, “get fit” might become, “Go to CrossFit three times each week.”

2. Be Realistic.

One of the reasons we set goals is to work toward a challenge. And while a goal should challenge you, it also needs to be realistic. Define a goal that will push you and is just within your reach. Anything that is beyond the realm of what’s possible could lead to feelings of disappointment and frustration.

How do you know what’s realistic? Consider your current workout routine as well as the goals you’ve set in the past. You probably have a pretty good idea of what’s realistic.

3. Be Process-Oriented.

Goals provide direction on where to focus your time and energy. But if you think too much about the outcome, you could lose sight of how important the process is. Without taking small steps each day, you’ll never get closer to reaching your ultimate goal.

For long-term goals, create smaller goals for yourself that you can use as checkpoints. Use these mini-deadlines to help hold you accountable for sticking to your process.

4. Be Invested.

Once you have a specific and realistic goal, ask yourself why this goal is important to you. What is the purpose of achieving your goal?

Without understanding the intention behind your goals, the whole process could end up feeling meaningless and result in you giving up. But if your goal is relevant and you’re invested in putting in the work, then you’re more likely to see things through to the end.

To get started on your personal fitness and performance goals, check out MagMile CrossFit in Chicago. We have group and personal training options for all fitness levels, as well as nutrition coaching available.

To find out more about how to get started, contact us today.