Rothstein Gives Pointers on Goal Setting

Alexander Rothstein, Ed.D., instructor and coordinator for the exercise science program, is among the experts interviewed in an Associated Press article about goal-setting for the new year. While many people traditionally set New Year’s resolutions, others are turning to a new trend called the Winter Arc, utilizing the cold, dark earlier months of winter to turn inward and get a jump start on their goals, with the intent of having them in place by January 1. The practice pushes participants to be extremely disciplined, given that there is a shorter period to achieve goals (vs. an entire year). Rothstein notes that it’s never too late to start setting new fitness goals, and the best way to dive in is to carve out a manageable amount of time each day.

“If you make sure to actively plan and schedule each [workout] commitment, you will have an easier time adhering to the program. Recognize that if unforeseen circumstances cause you to miss a day or miss a specific goal in a day, it does not mean you failed the entire process,” says Rothstein, who encourages participants to pick back up and return to their workouts the next day.