LTB Podcast #431 Beyond SMART Goals - Supporting Clients Who Just Want To Feel Better
Nov 22, 2025
Claire and Maggie dive into the challenges of working with clients who lack specific goals, emphasizing that it's okay for them to simply want to feel better. They discuss the limitations of SMART goals and how intrinsic motivation often trumps assigned targets. The duo highlights the importance of short-term, achievable goals and adapting coaching styles to match individual needs. They also explore the significance of enjoyment and adherence as markers of progress, fostering a more personalized and supportive coaching environment.
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Real-Life Wins Beat Fitness Tests
- Claire used the Queen's College step test early in her career but found clients valued real-life outcomes.
- Clients described 'getting fitter' as not being out of breath on a pram walk, not better lab test scores.
Use Short, Achievable Targets
- Use short-term, achievable goals (e.g., 6–12 weeks) to re-engage motivation.
- Make sure goals feel possible from the client's current capacity to sustain effort.
Tailored Half-Marathon Plan
- Maggie built a half-marathon plan with a client around her schedule and parkrun PBs.
- Regular check-ins and visible progress (parkrun times) kept the client engaged.