If you have a goal, you're already on the right path to fitness success. Having a destination in mind, will give your program the focus required to seeing results.

It's fantastic to take on a huge goal, like running a marathon or competing in a figure competition but if you still have a long way to go, nothing is worse than realizing this and becoming discouraged. If you want to run a marathon but you have never run in your life, it would be unrealistic to try and make 26.2 miles on your first try!

Fortunately even seemingly unattainable goals are within reach. It's possible to do whatever you want to accomplish but in smaller steps, or mini goals.

Mini (or micro) Goals

These goals are baby steps toward an ultimate achievement. Depending on how long it will take you, a mini goal can be anywhere from 1 day to 12 weeks. The benefit of taking these smaller steps, is that it's very motivating and encouraging to constantly see progress and realize you are another step closer to your original, big goal.

Examples of mini goals could be:

- Losing 2 pounds a week to reach a weight goal
- Lifting weights 3-4 times a week to achieve a body building goal
- Running an extra mile (or adding speed) per week for 12 weeks
- Adding more activity to your daily routine to accomplish 30 minutes of exercise a day.

Breaking up a goal in to smaller stages also helps to plan, track and monitor progress. Try the mini goal approach to make your fitness dreams in to a reality.