When preparing to make changes to improve your health, it’s important to understand your current status. Assessing your starting point with your health care provider, a personal trainer and on your own is a good place to start. For a greater understanding of where you are starting from, answer the following:

• How do I feel, in general?

• Do I feel pain or discomfort?

• What daily actions are difficult? What joints/muscles do those actions involve?

• What did your doctor tell you to do on your last annual exam?

• What is your current physical activity level?

Once you have assessed your current health and fitness status, ask yourself: What is the next step to get moving in the direction I want to go?

Even small increases in activity benefit health and can increase fitness levels. So whether you want to walk regularly or train for a marathon, setting realistic expectations can help.

In setting realistic goals, consider your daily/weekly responsibilities and activities, your history with previous activity changes and what you enjoy. Long-term success depends on your ability to meet your goals, so be flexible in setting them. Health coaches can help you set realistic goals and help you get on the road to success.