The New Year is right around the corner, and a vast majority of you will make some sort of “health resolution.” This is great and all, but when you make the decision to get healthier use this acronym I got from Women’s Fitness, S.M.A.R.T.

SPECIFIC- Make sure your goals are not broad! “I want to get healthy,” is way too broad. Narrow you goal(s) down. Instead, “I want to do a half marathon by July.” “I want to lose 10% body fat within 3 months.”

MEASURABLE- Track your progress on a weekly and monthly basis. Make sure you have some way to record your progress as time goes on. There is nothing more gratifying than to see your progress on paper! It also keeps you on track!

ATTAINABLE- If you can only work out three days a week, realistically, do not say your goal is to work out five days a week for the next year. Be realistic with your goal, and do not set yourself up for failure. Set the bar high, but not too high. Failure is not an option.

REALISTIC- The healthiest way to lose weight is about a pound and a half a week. Do not make is your only purpose, to lose five pounds a week. Chances are you are losing more than just fat if this is the case. Yes, losing the weigh is important but do not make it your only objective. Pay attention to inches and how you feel as well. Your body can only be pushed so hard.

Time Sensitive- Dead lines dead lines dead lines…. Give yourself deadlines, it will keep you focused and on track to reaching your health goals. It is much like work, we are given deadlines for almost all tasks. Translate this over to your exercise regimen. “I want to drop 75-100 pounds in the next year.”

I hope this helps as you make your health/fitness goals for 2012!

If you have any questions or comments email me at klarson@cwhwichita.com

Be happy and healthy!

Kyle