Goals…for the WIN!

When working with clients, I always like to have a discussion regarding movement goals. With current clients I usually review their goals every 6 months. Some of these have included:

• Getting up from the floor with ease after playing with my grandchildren

• Training to qualify for the Boston Marathon

• Training to sit on the beach in a bikini in Mexico

• To be pain free by yesterday

• To continue my recovery from my joint replacement surgery

• To be able to V-back

When I initially ask a new client what their goals are, these are some of the typical responses:

• Strength

• Flexibility

• Core

Can you can see the difference of the list goals? First set, very specific, and usually with a defined date. Second set, very general.

With a specific set of goals and with a timeframe in mind, we can determine what exactly the training plan will be. Answers to questions can then happen:

• How much training would be needed to get to that goal in that timeframe?

• What would the pace need to be?

• What other things is the client doing to achieve that goal?

• Where is the client starting from to then reach the goal?

Specific goals give both the trainer and client something to base progress on. With specific definable goals I can serve my client better! I know what they are wanting/needing/expecting and I can meet those wants/needs/expectations. Also, I find the measurement of success can then be quantified. And, as a trainer I appreciate having something to be working towards with the client.

We can celebrate together when the goal is hit and when progress beyond the goal is achieved!

PS I learned how paramount goal setting is when working with the amazingly talented instructor Natalie Sutto over at 314 Pilates

Check her out if you are in the STL area.! And by the by, she’s my sister. ;)