Which of the following is a SMART short-term goal related to cardiovascular fitness for the initial weeks?

A SMART goal is one that is Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. The choice that states "More distance covered in the same amount of time within the target heart rate zone" fulfills these criteria effectively as a short-term goal related to cardiovascular fitness.

This goal is specific because it clearly defines the desired outcome: increasing distance covered. It is measurable, as distance can be quantified and tracked over time. It is achievable, assuming the individual has a reasonable starting point; for someone beginning a fitness program, gradually increasing distance is realistic. The relevance is clear in the context of cardiovascular fitness, where improving endurance and capacity to perform aerobic activities is fundamental. Finally, it can be time-bound if set with a specific timeframe in mind, such as measuring progress weekly.

By focusing on increasing the distance while maintaining activity within the target heart rate zone, this goal supports improvements in cardiovascular fitness while also ensuring that the individual is working at an intensity that promotes safety and effectiveness.

The other choices do not align as well with the SMART criteria. For instance, a decrease in resting heart rate can be a good indicator of improved cardiovascular health but lacks specificity regarding how much it should decrease within a certain timeframe, which makes it less effective as a