Lab 4

Developing S.M.A.R.T. goals

If you want to change any aspect of a habit/behavior, it is not enough to say, "I want to change XYZ". Many times we say we want to change some aspect of our life, as it relates to health and fitness or some other behavior, but how often do we really accomplish it. Success is rare for those who say it and do not write it down.

Developing specific goals in the S.M.A.R.T. format has been found to be a great tool in increasing the chances of one reaching their goals. The acronym S.M.A.R.T. refers to all goals being Specific, Measurable, Action-oriented, Realistic, Timely or Timeline.

In this lab we will be reviewing how to develop S.M.A.R.T. goals, as well as breaking short-term goals down further to develop specific objective statements. Sometimes in order to reach a goal, we may have to change several aspects of our life in order to do so. The development of goal objectives will help to do that.

Flexibility and Muscular Fitness Assessment

Flexibility is the capacity of a joint to move easily through its full range of motion. Poor flexibility may prevent you from performing simple daily tasks, cause neck and lower back pain, and lead to injuries in both every day activities, such as bending and lifting, or more vigorous activities, such as running. Flexibility tends to declines with inactivity and age, mainly due to lack of performing flexibility activities, but can be improved at any fitness level or age. In this laboratory you will perform the sit-and-reach test to assess the flexibility of your posterior hip. Because range of motion is joint-specific, the rating of the sit-and-reach test does not necessarily indicate your general flexibility. You may already have a good sense of your own flexibility and a specific area of your body you need to work on.

There are many benefits to having healthy strong muscles. When your muscles are in good shape not only do they function more effectively in your daily activities, but they help you to look and feel better. If your muscles do not get adequate physical activity as you age, they will waste away and you will loose muscle mass and tone. This can start in your 20's. Getting regular physical activity will help prevent muscle atrophy while helping to maintain a great quality of life at any age.