Goal Setting

Reasons for goal setting

Motivate performers

Improve performance

Adhere to exercise

Can push people to stick to exercise programme

E.g, attending all 3 sessions this week and should hit target of 1kg weight loss

Can inspire performer to achieve their potential

E.g, weightlifters goal of completing one additional rep per set drives them to go further

Goal can lead to higher level of performance over time

E.g, coach gives athletes goal to knock off 0.5 seconds from 400m lap time

Specific

Goals should be clear and focused which is relevant to the sport

E.g, weight lifter would do bicep curls to increase strength in arms instead of leg press to develop leg strength

Measurable

Goals should be assessed to know how performer has done

E.g, coach should assess how many times gymnast completes a cartwheel with perfect technique

Achievable

Goals should be realistic and within performers capability

E.g, if striker scored 1 goal all season, cannot have a goal of scoring 30. Maybe a goal of 3-4 goals by the end of the season is more realistic

Recorded

Measurements should be logged to track progress and adapt training programmes and future goals to suit progress

E.g, weightlifter records the number of sets, reps and weight lifted each session to ensure there is progress

Timed

Short-term goals are more achievable and lead up to long-term goals

E.g, one week goal for training to improve the sprint start technique