SMART goals are the current best practice in goal setting for motivated people
However setting specific, challenging goals may be problematic for inactive populations. SMART goals are not the gold standard and the concept of Open Goals are more important in these populations.
Open Goals are non-specific, exploratory goals that emphasize self-directed discovery, enjoyment, and ongoing engagement rather than fixed outcomes.
Indication: At the start of the referral process or when motivation/identity is low.
Research shows that
Specific goals are for insufficiently physically active patients who start a physical activity program not more effective at increasing physical activity than goals that are openly defined (eg, ‘see how well you can do’).
Specific goals should not be considered best practice (i.e., most effective) for insufficiently physically active patients at the early stages of learning to be active.
Individuals need to adjust to the changes involved in becoming, and staying, physically active, for example, with commitment, motivation and overcoming setbacks/relapses.
