Setting Weight Loss Goals Articles | Weight Loss

By: Richard Bleuze

Setting Weight Loss Goals

For most people, setting a weight loss goal is one of the more difficult things to do when you embark on an exercise and/or diet program.  The main question that you must ask yourself is how much weight do you need to lose? That question is not that easy to answer and is often based on your particular goals.  Are you on a weight loss program for your health do you have something more specific in mind like a certain clothing-size you want to fit into?

Once you have answered the above question, you should set a reasonable goal for yourself?  The key to setting weight loss goals is to follow the standard of goal setting. It needs to be specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and tangible.

To set a weight loss goal, you need to determine if you really need to lose weight.  Probably everyone needs to lose some fat - whether it's for health reasons or vanity.  Often, however, our weight loss goals are based on what we think we should look like rather than what is reasonable for our bodies right now.   

If you have determined you do need to lose weight, then set a reasonable weight loss goal for yourself.  A great place to start would be the general recommendations set out by the American College of Sports Medicine which is 5-10% of body weight or about one to two pounds per week.

You can also use these calculators to set your goals:

•Ideal Body Weight Calculator
•How to Assess your Ideal Body Weight
•Height – Weight Chart
•BMI Calculator

Another way to set your weight loss goal is to focus less on a target weight and more on making healthy choices each day to reduce your calories.  This is not as easy as it sounds since it involves life changing habit changes.  However, in my opinion it is the healthiest way to go.  Although, not a quick weight loss plan, eventually you will get to a weight you can sustain and feel good about.

Once you have determined to set a weight loss goal, you should record that goal and then make a plan to reach it.  Look at your goal objectively: is it specific, measureable, attainable, realistic and tangible?

Breaking down your goal into specific steps and looking at your goal on a piece of paper on a daily basis can help you focus on your daily tasks.  By doing this, you will be able to adjust your goal whenever you need to.  If you find that you are not losing weight as quickly as you thought and wanted, then change your goal weight or the length of time to reach it.  Just remember, your goal needs to be attainable or you will give up.  Thus, be willing to set new goals if the old ones are not working for you.

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