Navigating Goals: A Strategy for Winning in the Gym

Written by John Main

Whether you’re brand new to exercise or a member of our 1,000 Class Club, goals can be a GPS for your progress — without them, you might only be doing burpees in a parking lot (apologies to our 2020 Grassroots Crew). Like box jumps, goals take measuring, some daring, and a willingness to push yourself to new heights. They can keep your sweat sessions on track, add incentive to early-morning wake-ups, and turn “I don’t think I can” into “I just did.”

1. Be. More. Specific: Before you start swinging kettlebells and lifting barbells, define your objective, and make sure it progresses from your current fitness ability, as well as lines up with other commitments outside of the gym that vie for your energy. Specificity is key, if you want to lose 10 pounds, Back Squat 300, or simply finish five classes a week.

2. Baby Steps: Giant leaps are cool, but smaller, achievable changes are what really build momentum and motivation. It doesn’t matter if you’re chasing technique in a particular movement or slinging heavy weights; manageable, attainable milestones also enable you to most effectively follow your improvements.

3. Chart the Path: Outlining your agenda is like making a good playlist – it has to be energizing and tailored to you. Use the monthly and daily training focuses to help, and remember that all Performance360 workouts are designed to provide a mix of Physique, Strength and Conditioning, and are great for any goal.

4. Rolling with the Punches: Not every day will be perfect, and it’s better to accept the occasional hurdle, which is as much a part of the game as anything. Life happens: work gets busy, kids get sick, you get stuck in traffic on your way to the gym. Have a plan B for the days that go sideways.

5. Progress Selfies and Flex Friends: If you’re sharing with your people, or staying organized with apps or calendars, accountability brings out the best kinds of support and encouragement. Check in with yourself, too! Evaluate your process, re-evaluate timelines, and adjust your regimen based on your evolving insights.

6. Recognize the Mini Wins: All PRs, regardless of how small, are cause for celebration. You’ve earned that victory — it strengthens your commitment and fuels your pursuit, so give yourself high-fives, fist bumps, or even a happy dance.

7. Learn from Setbacks: Disappointment is frustrating, but it’s often a stepping stone to growth. Difficulty is a synonym for opportunity, to refine your strategy and tweak your approach. Overcoming obstacles builds grit and mental resilience, and helps you level up.

8. Come and Get It: Consistency is the secret sauce. Commit the time, show up, put in the effort, and steadily create the habit.

The journey is as important as the destination. And you’ll set yourself up for success with structure, steadiness, plus a little flexibility. So go ahead, slam those medicine balls, clean those barbells, and conquer your goals with remarkable results.