27/07/2026
Do SMART Goals confuse you. We get a lot of feedback from students on all courses being assessed about understanding the Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Timed goals and how to set them. It would be much better if the sector focused on 'outcomes' which are tangible results, as the health sector does rather than Goals which are measurable objectives but the quals ask for goals. So here we go! Let's try and understand how to get a win and set them. Whether planning long term programmes for clients on a one to one, themes for periods of classes or just a group class session don't try to set goals for everything you are going to teach in the session. For your clients, course assessments or for ease of programming, try to think of goals as a "Praise Target". What can my client not do now that they would like to be able to do by the end of the period in question? Transfer this into your plan using anatomy and physiology applied to your discipline whether that is group exercise, PT , Pilates, Aqua or Yoga etc. i.e. increase core endurance by being able to ****** then pick your measure i.e complete The Hundred with table top legs by week 8 or increase upper body strength by being able to complete 6 full push ups by week 8 and so on. Take what your clients want to achieve, transpose it to what you know you can get them too anatomically, physiologically or biomechanically achieve and attach an exercise, movement or measure that they strive for and use It to praise their socks off!!! Especially if they get there early. We know your sessions will have balance and lots of things you are working on and towards but just keep it simple and choose one or two SMART goals as big "Praise' you got there goals. Then reset another once that one has been achieved. Listen to this podcast to help and use this template to practice: https://bit.ly/4vNwLlR
