Developing a good measurable set of goals is great. Making out an action plan of attack is even better. Now it’s time to manage your plans. And a good place to start is with good management tools.
Fitness Logs
Your local library is a good place to start for management tools. Check out fitness log books to see which type appeals to you most, which works best with your fitness goals. And use the computer to search the Internet for fitness log sheets and software like Microsoft Word and Excel to create your own spreadsheets logging your workout equipment, reps, times, etc. and to make food diaries and fitness journaling pages.
If you are using a special program like at eDiets or Body for Life, your program may already have logs for you to use, so ask and conduct a little research. Gyms and fitness centers also generally have their own generic log sheets you can use to note equipment, reps, time, daily intake of foods, etc. And your physician may have log sheets for you as well. So look around before heading to the store to buy something. If you do need to shop, check pricing at eBay and Amazon for new and excellent used logs that have never been written in before.
After you determine which log to use, make it handy to use both at home and to take with you to the gym daily. Keep a gym bag or other type of carry all by the door with your log book inside with a pencil that has an eraser, for example. And use it every day, except if you have a day of rest in your plans each week, like many programs feature.
Planning Calendars
Log books are great, but you need to coordinate your activities with your daily planning calendar so that you make sure to fit your fitness into your everyday life. One top way to do this is to map out your fitness plans by keying them into a computerized calendar like Microsoft Outlook offers and printing them out as needed. Outlook also allows you to set up tasks to repeat on a regular basis (daily, weekly, monthly, etc.), great for logging exercise classes.
Another excellent calendar system is by Franklin Covey. They have software planning systems that are compatible Outlook and handheld units. Plus they have a wide variety of print planning systems for all budget ranges. As with your searches above, check availability on eBay and Amazon before buying directly form a local store.
Then follow up daily, planning and putting your plans into action with exercises each day. Monitor your plans, get help as needed, revise and keep on completing daily tasks. And before you know it, your 12 months will be up and you’ll have conquered your goals – at least most of them hopefully. If not, get help, revise and go forth again for a new and better year. If so, make sore and continue. Either way, take charge!
Weight Loss 
Developing a good measurable set of goals is great. Making out an action plan of attack is even better. Now it’s time to manage your plans. And a good place to start is with good management tools.
