desired state and their actual state – in their own minds, people conduct some form of basic gap analysis between current and desired states. Goal-setting then creates a framework through which an appropriate behaviour can be identified and attached to the goal in order for it to be achieved.


Carver and Scheier (1990) have


identified that goals have multiple hierarchical levels – levels they have named the focal goal, superordinate goal and subordinate goal. The focal goal is commonly referred to in the fitness industry as the outcome goal – the result the individual is striving for, such


THE ROLE OF THE SUPERORDINATE GOAL M


any people receiving a gym induction have


been drawn into focusing on a limited number of health- and weight-related benefits: research has shown that 75 per cent of outcome goals relate to weight loss and health benefits. Further studies suggest that 40 per


August 2013 © Cybertrek 2013


cent of women over 45 exercise solely to improve body shape and appearance. As social pressures have


led individuals to have these sorts of health/weight goals, it’s logical that health is frequently cited as a reason for exercising. Yet despite health and shape being a


commonly cited value, a growing body of research is suggesting that outcome goals focusing on health and weight are not in fact the optimal goals to drive exercise adherence. A study by Huberty et al


(2008) investigated exercise adherence in two groups


of women over a 12-week period. It was found those who did not adhere were motivated solely to lose weight, whereas those who adhered did so for superordinate reasons – not wanting to be judged badly by people at a big upcoming event, for example.


Read Health Club Management online at healthclubmanagement.co.uk/digital 53


weight loss or muscle growth – and is the type of goal we’re most familiar with. The subordinate goal is a lower order


goal – one we would usually describe as a process goal. Process goals are the day-to-day activities required to reach the outcome goal. For someone looking to lose weight, a subordinate goal


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