By: Jon Osumi

Exercise, much like every other achievement in life, requires goal setting and developing a plan for reaching those goals for maximum success. 

When involved in an exercise routine, it is always best to have a specific plan of what you are going to accomplish during each exercise session BEFORE arriving at the gym (or exercise room).  It is very easy to get distracted during exercise, or to just succumb to the brain's clever suggestions of a path of lesser resistance.  Which one of us has not stopped to chat with a friend and lost sight of both time and the goal for that day's exercise?

Just like baking a cake, there should be a clear recipe to follow that eliminates wasted time by trying to remember or figuring out what to do on the fly.  If the plan for today is to walk, set a goal on what pace and how long before starting.  If the plan is to complete strength training, have your exercises written out in the intended order, how many sets and repetitions to complete, and amount of weight.  As you follow your 'recipe', making personal notes along the way will help improve the process.  Even if you are not able to complete your plan, make note of that as well.  Be sure to write down why you could not complete your plan so you can adjust for the next workout.  As you reach your written goals, you can set new ones based on past successes. 

Jon Osumi

Share this Article

Facebook  Twitter