SMART SYSTEM

Use the SMART system and you'll realize how much easier it can be to shed the pounds when you have a plan.The SMART system contains five components. Each letter of SMART holds a key to your healthy future.S is for setting goalsWe have all said at one point or another that we want to lose weight. In order to make it happen, we have to have a goal weight in mind. Let's say that we want to lose 15-lb. That is goal number one. To be healthy and stay in shape is another good one. What exactly does that mean to you? You need to begin by writing it down.M is for measurableIf you want to get somewhere, you have to know where you started from. And the steps in between are what you use to guide yourself to the success that you deserve. When you begin your weight-loss journey, take note of your weight and continue to monitor it on a weekly basis. Do the same with your body measurements. These two things will hold yourself more accountable toward the goals that you have set.Which brings us to:A and R - attainable and realisticWhen you have your goal in mind, you want to set it slightly outside your comfort zone, while at the same time making it within reach. If it is far beyond your means, frustration and failure come into play. Discuss what you want to do with a personal trainer, who will help you set up a plan and timeline that makes success your only option. Your best interests and your health are always kept in mind.T is for timeAs mentioned earlier, a timeframe or deadline is key to bringing it all together. Of course, you want your healthy new lifestyle to be ongoing. However, it is also extremely important to making your ultimate plan tangible. You accomplish this by saying you will get it done by a specific date.There are different types of goals to set:Short-, medium- and long-term goals.A short-term goal is something you want to get done within five weeks. A medium-term goal is between five and eight weeks. A long-term goal is anything that you want to accomplish in three months to a year. Breaking things down to short-, medium- and long-term goals helps to keep things in focus. The momentum of getting to each goal helps move you to the next plan of attack.
Be SMART and be successful!For more information on this topic or if you have other fitness and nutrition questions, contact Martha Lombardo nutritionfirstinc@hotmail.comKarma Schopp karma_leah@yahoo.ca