Rethinking Goal Setting in Exercise: Moving Beyond SMART

Goal setting is central to exercise and health practice, however according to a recent expert statement published on behalf of Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA), it may be time to rethink how we approach goal setting altogether.

While SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, Time-bound) provide helpful structure, the statement argues they’re often overused and oversimplified. Writing a goal in the “right” format doesn’t guarantee it will motivate behaviour or support long-term change.

Here’s some additional considerations:

Goal Setting Is a Process

Effective goal setting isn’t a one-off task during an initial consultation. It’s ongoing and collaborative, and involves reviewing progress, adjusting expectations and aligning goals with what truly matters to the client.

Focus on the Right Type of Goals

Not all goals work the same way:

• Outcome goals (e.g., weight loss) can be motivating but are often outside full control.

• Performance goals (e.g., improve strength or walking distance) are more controllable.

• Process goals (e.g., attend three sessions per week) focus directly on behaviour.
  
  
  

A layered approach, where outcome goals are supported by performance and process goals, tends to be more effective and sustainable.

Context Matters

Goals should reflect the individual’s readiness, clinical complexity, motivation and environment. What works for one person may overwhelm another. 

Similarly, poorly constructed goals can increase pressure, reduce motivation, or lead to disengagement if progress stalls. Monitoring psychological responses is just as important as tracking physical outcomes.

Final Thoughts

As part of Exercise Right Week, ESSA is encouraging Australians to seek safe, evidence-based exercise guidance from qualified professionals. This year’s campaign is a timely reminder that exercise isn’t just about short-term outcomes or chasing numbers, it’s about building sustainable habits, improving quality of life and supporting long-term health.

At Atrium Exercise Physiology, we take a person-centred approach to the care we deliver.

That means we don’t see goal setting as a box to tick or a number to chase, we see it as a conversation. 

Whether your focus is managing a chronic condition, returning to work, improving strength and balance, or simply feeling more confident in your body, the goals we set together are designed to support sustainable, meaningful progress.

We’ve proudly served the local community for over 10 years. In that time, we’ve worked with people at every stage of life and health, helping them move forward with clarity and confidence.

If you’re unsure where to start, that’s okay - that’s what we’re here for. Reach out to a member of the team and let’s start the conversation.

References:

Swann, C., Buchan, J., Calleja, E. A., Goddard, S. G., Clarke, M. M., Hawkins, R. M., Jackman, P. C., Schweickle, M. J., Vella, S. A., & Rosenbaum, S. (2026). Goal setting in exercise and physical activity: An expert statement on behalf of Exercise and Sports Science Australia. Sports Medicine. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40279-025-02373-5.