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Goal Setting

Goal setting is an easy and accessible tool available to all of us which can help in setting and achieving exercise and physical activity objectives.

Setting SMART goals

Setting SMART goals are an easy way to create personal objectives related to health and fitness.

SMART goals refer to goals that are:

  • Specific
  • Measurable
  • Achievable
  • Realistic
  • Time-bound

For example, a SMART goal might cover:

  • Reaching 5000 steps per day through gentle walking every day for a week.
  • Trying out 1 new sport within the next month.
  • Scoring a goal during the next football match with your local social football club.
  • Running for 15 minutes without stopping by the end of the year.

How do you set SMART goals?

We have produced a Gwent Live Well Live Longer Guide Booklet, with information on SMART goal-setting.

In addition, some individuals might use exercise as a tool to aid weight-loss in addition to following a healthy eating pattern may benefit from setting SMART goals to help them track and monitor their progress.

If you are concerned about your body weight and would like to speak to our weight management services, please visit our Getting Help with your Weight page for more information on support and services available.

Learn more information, including tips and trick on setting and achieving your goals: Set your goals - Healthy Weight Healthy You

The more we move, the better we feel – but sometimes keeping up momentum when trying out a new exercise routine or sport can feel like a challenge.

Try small things to create healthy habits that work for you, here are a few ideas:

  • Create a plan: Follow a manageable training plan, for example Couch to 5K is an easy-to-follow training plan for those interested in taking up running from a beginner level.
  • Try a home workout – get your heart rate up from the comfort of your own home. Why not choose from one of Sports Wales’ easy to follow home-workout videos.
  • Do it with a friend – make a plan to go on a walk with a friend or loved one and pass the time catching-up as well as getting some daily or weekly movement in.
  • Book a class in advance – having something pre-planned in the diary will help you commit to your exercise goals.
  • Make a plan around your schedule and availability – are you a morning or an evening person? Plan your exercise in for when you have the most time and energy during the day.
  • Book or attend a local sporting event – this could be as part of a SMART goal you have set yourself, or just for fun – the choice is yours!

Public Health Wales has more tips and tricks on how to motivate yourself to exercise.

Additionally, Run Wales offers suggestions and advice on keeping up motivation.