If you are thinking about beginning an exercise program or fitness routine, one of the first questions you may ask yourself is how to set fitness goals. Whether you are looking to lose weight, gain a little bit of muscle or just tone up, setting your goals can help you achieve your goal much quicker and easier than if you did not set them. Knowing how to set fitness goals will not only help you to succeed but it can also keep you from going too far and not achieving your fitness goals for that matter. Here are some tips that may help you get started.

The first tip on how to set fitness goals relates to diet. You want to make sure that whatever exercise program you decide on is one that you will stick with in order to see the best results. This means that you need to take the time each day to make healthy choices. Eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of sleep will not only help you to achieve your goals but can help you to stay motivated as well.

It is also important to set realistic goals when it comes to exercise program and fitness routines. It is easy to get caught up in doing things at a very fast pace without giving yourself enough time to achieve good results. When you set reasonable goals, you will be able to see where you are with your program but you will also have the motivation you need to continue with it. The best way to do this is to use a timer to remind yourself how many calories are burning or to count how many sit-ups you have done. This will keep you motivated because even if it is difficult to keep up with these goals, you will see progress as long as you stick with it.

The next tip on how to set fitness goals relates to consistency. Achieving your goals will not happen over night so you will need to be patient and remain focused on what you want to achieve. If you begin an exercise program and don't continue it then you will never see any type of progress. It may take a few weeks, months or even years to reach your fitness goals but being consistent will help you achieve them.

The final tip on how to set fitness goals relates to motivation and maintaining motivation as you move toward your goals. You will be able to see success and see that others are following your lead. Motivation is most effective when it is self driven so you must create the drive within yourself. Make sure that all your energy, enthusiasm and hard work are directed toward your fitness goals. Stay motivated by checking your short term goals along the way and adding to your long term goals as you progress toward them.

If you find that it is difficult to maintain your motivation while following an exercise program then you may benefit from using a coach. Find someone who will push you, support you and keep you accountable. It is very easy to get distracted in a fitness routine and not pay attention to the big picture. Having a coach can help you focus on the here and now instead of thinking about the past or future.

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