Your client has come to you with a goal of participating in the short course of a triathlon in 12 months. Address steps 4-8 from the article above in developing a strategy for motivating this client and helping the client reach her goal.

A triathlon is a fun course and the client is allowing themselves enough time to properly prepare without getting overwhelmed. To start, I would explain that this involves three different phases: the run, swim, and bike. So they will be working different muscle groups for each activity and that they are all big muscle groups of the body. Instead of looking at the big picture I would have them break it down and focus on small goals. Some smaller goals to start with would be start running two-three days a week for about 1-2 miles. Once comfortable with that register for a 5K run. After that set a goal for a 10K run. While including the runs I would also incorporate strength training and maybe suggest they meet with a trainer once or twice a week for 30 minutes to work on strength making sure the trainer knows what they are training for so they can work the proper muscle groups. I would also suggest maybe a cycling class as biking can be somewhat lonely. Again, I would start small and celebrate the small accomplishments, then move on to the next goal. I would have them write it all down on separate pieces of paper so that they are only concentrating on one goal at a time. For example, the first piece could be: run 2-3 miles 2 days/week, strength train once a day and cycle once a week for the first week increasing intensity as needed. Next I would suggest that they maybe try and do this with a friend or family member. That way they have a support group not only behind them but with them. Also, if they do sign with a personal trainer they will have additional support and someone holding them accountable for their workouts!