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Goal Setting – Create a Goal the SMART Way

Goal Setting – Create a Goal the SMART Way | Bindi Delaney | Exam Preparation Blog | 12/4/2013



SMART GoalsOne very important role of a fitness professional is to help clients define their goals. A proven way to set effective goals is using the SMART goal method.




Relevant: The goals must be relevant to the particular interests, needs and abilities of the client. For example, running 1-kilometer sprints would not be the best approach to training for a half marathon.

Time-bound: The goals must contain an estimated timeline or deadline for completion. Timelines can be both short-term and long-term and should help the client stay focused and on track. Clients should be evaluated regularly to monitor progress toward goals.

Let’s try an example.
Goal: “I want to lose weight by running a lot.”

Goal: “I want to eat healthier.”
Goal: “I want to start exercising.”
Goal: “I want to lose 20 pounds.”

SMART goals should also incorporate product and process goals. A product goal is something achieved, like weight loss, or a specific resistance lifted on a strength machine. For example, when someone states, “I will lose 20 pounds,” the pound loss is the end product. Or, in the statement, “I will run a 5K,” the 5K achievement is the end product.  Typically, a product goal will fall within the measurable component of a SMART goal.

A process goal is something a client does to achieve the product goal. For example, “I will run three times per week” may be part of the process of completing a goal such as “Run a 5K.” Or, “I will eat a salad once a day” may be the process of completing a goal such as “I want to lose 5 pounds.” Typically, a process goal is part of the specific component of a SMART goal.
