FAF is SMART

SMART is an acronym that represents specific, measurable, actionable, relevant, and time-bound. By incorporating these principles into your goal setting, your chances of achieving your desired outcome will significantly improve.

Let's examine each component of the SMART system in relation to strength training.

Specific - The more specific your goal, the easier it becomes to attain. For instance, stating that you want to improve your fitness level is less specific compared to aiming to increase your squat lift from 45 pounds to 100 pounds within a two-month period. A well-defined goal like this allows you to focus on the necessary steps to achieve it, such as building more strength and muscle through squat training.

Measurable - To determine if you have successfully reached your goal, you need a way to measure your progress. A reliable training program should include a means of tracking your improvement. While activities like yoga can be beneficial, they lack a concrete measure of strength gain. On the other hand, if you start with a 10-pound lift and progress to lifting 100 pounds in three months, you have tangible evidence of your increased strength.

Actionable - How will you achieve your strength-related goal? What actions are necessary for success? A well-designed strength program must be actionable, meaning it should be feasible and compatible with your abilities and circumstances. For example, if you have health limitations, high-intensity training or CrossFit may not be suitable options. In my case, I needed a program that was straightforward and could be done at home. If my chosen program did not meet these criteria, I would have struggled to achieve my strength training goals.

Relevant - Is your goal relevant to your current situation? Setting a goal to become an Olympic weightlifter may not be relevant for a 62-year-old individual. However, aiming to increase your squat total is relevant and beneficial. Stronger legs provide numerous advantages in various aspects of life, enabling you to accomplish more.

Time Bound – It is important for your goal to have a specific timeframe in which it can be achieved. This allows for progress monitoring and provides motivation. For instance, if your goal is to increase your strength through bodyweight exercises, it is difficult to determine how long it will take to reach your desired level. However, if you begin by lifting 10 pounds and gradually increase the weight by 2.5 pounds each week, you will have a rough estimate of where you should be in two months. A well-designed strength program should be organized and have a clear schedule associated with it. This is what sets training apart from mere exercising.

By adhering to the SMART principles, you can enhance your goal-setting process and increase your likelihood of successfully reaching your desired outcomes.