The road to lifestyle change
Are you caught in a pattern of setting exercise goals and then not accomplishing them? If so, you're not alone. Jerod Wilson, director of strength and conditioning for the Texas A&M University Department of Recreational Sports, offers these tips to help you reach your exercise goals and stay focused on that road to lifestyle change.
- Think about what you want to achieve. Setting several short-term goals will give you the motivation you need to reach your long-term goals. Lifestyle changes take time, so be patient and gradually work toward your long-term goals. When you achieve a short-term goal, congratulate yourself. Each short-term success means you're one step closer to meeting your long-term goals. To maximize your chances for success throughout your journey, make sure all of your goals are SMART:
- S = sensible
M = measurable
A = achievable/attainable
R = realistic
T = time-oriented
- Be flexible. Understand that work, family and other demands will sometimes disrupt your exercise schedule. Keep to your schedule when you can, but be willing to adjust your exercise time. While you should keep exercise a priority, missing an exercise session or two does not mean you have failed. Resume exercising as soon as possible.
- Make your environment more conducive to exercise. In other words, set yourself up for success. Post exercise reminders on your refrigerator and in your office and car. Keep a gym bag in your car or in an easily accessible and visible place in your home. Keep your exercise equipment in a favorite room of your home. You'll be much more likely to use the equipment if it's in a location you enjoy anyway.
- Be patient with yourself. Challenge yourself with your exercise routines, but don't push yourself to the point where you get discouraged because you can't run fast enough or lift enough weight. Gradually improve your time and endurance. Remember, you are not in a race. It's more important to reach your long-term goals gradually than to demand too much of yourself too soon.
- Learn from other people. Experienced trainers or others who have been exercising for a long time may have techniques and tips that could help you reach your goals more efficiently.
- Set up a support system. Find friends, family, support groups or online communities who you can turn to for encouragement. It's a lot easier to accomplish goals when people are cheering you on!
So, begin your journey on the road to a healthier, more active lifestyle! You can succeed! 
This article is provided as a courtesy by the Texas A&M University Department of Recreational Sports. Before beginning any exercise program, consult your health care provider. If you have questions, contact a sports professional or your health care provider.
H.E.A.D.s Up is a monthly column that features articles on a wide array
of Health, Exercise And Diet issues. Information for these articles is
provided by health and wellness professionals from throughout the A&M
System. If you have questions or story ideas for this column, email Ruth McMullan.
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