Are you tired of setting unrealistic fitness goals and failing before you even begin? Do you want to learn the secret to achieving your fitness goals? Well, I have some good news for you my fellow Nigerians! In this article, I will be taking you through some practical steps to setting achievable fitness goals.
Be SMART
Firstly, it is essential to set SMART goals. SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound. Let’s break this down in our local context. Specific means that your goal should be clear and concise. Instead of saying, “I want to lose weight,” say, “I want to lose 10kg in three months.” Measurable means that your goal should be quantifiable. You should be able to track your progress. Achievable means that your goal should be within your capacity. Saying you want to run a marathon next week when you haven’t even jogged in months is not achievable. Realistic means that your goal should be practical and attainable. Time-bound means that your goal should have a deadline.
Find a workout partner
Secondly, find a buddy to join you in your fitness journey. In Nigeria, we are known for our sense of community, so it’s no surprise that working out with a friend makes it more fun and enjoyable. You can share your progress, encourage each other, and hold each other accountable.
Choose a convenient workout day
Thirdly, choose a workout that you enjoy. Dancing, swimming, or playing football, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness, and it’s essential to find an activity that you love. That’s why fitness in Nigeria is so diverse, and it is often said that there is a Nigerian fitness routine for everyone.
Go easy
Start small, and gradually increase the intensity. Don’t overexert yourself on the first day, or you will most likely quit before you see any results. Start with a few minutes of exercise a day and increase as you get fitter. Also, avoid comparing yourself to others. We all have different body types and fitness levels. Comparison is the thief of joy.
Be self-motivated
Finally, stay motivated by celebrating your successes along the way. Don’t wait until you achieve your ultimate goal before you give yourself a pat on the back. Celebrate the small wins, such as jogging for five minutes without stopping or losing a pound. These celebrations will keep you motivated and help you to stay on track.
In conclusion, setting realistic fitness goals is crucial to achieving any fitness objective. Using the SMART method, finding a buddy, choosing a workout that you love, starting small, and celebrating small wins will help you stay motivated and achieve your goals. Remember, fitness is a journey, not a destination. Let’s get fit, Nigeria!
