What goal do you have in mind?

When you take on a challenge, especially if it is difficult, you have certain results in mind.

Health is one area that few people consider as a challenge, but it is no different than working toward a degree. College has the goal of higher salary, better lifestyle and an increase in knowledge. The goal to enhance physical and emotional health is a vague one at best.

When you fail to consider the results of good health practices, physical health can gradually deteriorate. It is less noticed than if you suffer a fall or injury.

I wonder how many fitness students set health goals for themselves, and then I wonder how many of those goals are realistic.

There is a term called "delayed gratification." You learn to delay enjoyment when you're young ... as in waiting for the weekly allowance to arrive, waiting for the cake to bake, or waiting for Christmas. But no one is willing to wait six months to lose 30 pounds. As adults, we want instant new bodies, and if possible, younger ones.

It takes time to gain on time.

Confusing?

What it means is that the gradual reversal of bad health to good health takes time. And it does not necessarily have to take money. The first step is easy. You have to admit that you look terrible. Having your neighbor tell you won't count.

Then you have to have the mental strength to do something about it. Set a goal - the loss of that 30 pounds or the lowering of your blood pressure or the dress you need to get into in six weeks.

When you have to fit into a bridesmaid dress in three months, or when you have a 25th school reunion to attend, when you have to show up this summer in a bathing suit - these are goals. Nothing drops the doughnut out of your hand faster than an invitation to the boss's pool party and the threat of swimwear.

Now you need a little logic.

Delayed gratification is the only way to handle fitness and health goals, safely, slowly and effectively. Give yourself two months to shore up the foundation and tighten the walls. I can tell you that you'll also get a better working heart and lungs, but that won't spur you on, I know that.

So set goals with determination and say to yourself, "I will look 100 percent better in two months." Then enjoy your new image and new health - and while you're at it, stay away from the doughnuts.

• Jerry Vance is owner of The Sweat Shop/Wet Sweat. She offers classes through Carson City Recreation and Aquatics Center and is a fitness instructor for the Carson City Senior Citizens Center.