New research from CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has revealed the significant impact of personalized goal setting on achieving sustainable weight loss as Australians embark on health resolutions for the new year.
An analysis of over 22,000 participants from the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet found that while many individuals set ambitious weight loss targets of around 20 kg at the program’s start, only 3% successfully reached these goals within 12 weeks.
However, the study also uncovered that participants who utilized a personalized weight loss target generated by an AI-powered tool saw much greater success. These tailored goals not only promoted early weight loss but also yielded better long-term outcomes. Specifically, 47% of participants reached their personalized weight loss goal by shedding between 7 and 11 kg within 12 weeks.
Tailored Support with AI
The My Journey AI tool, embedded within the program, is designed to help individuals achieve weight loss by crafting goals based on their unique circumstances. According to CSIRO Research Scientist, Dr. Gilly Hendrie, setting realistic goals is essential for both initiating and maintaining a successful weight loss journey.
“We know that early success fosters momentum for continued weight loss,” Dr. Hendrie said. “When goals are personalized and achievable, participants gain the motivation needed to stay committed and ultimately achieve larger milestones.”
Stretch Goals: A Key to Success
While setting unrealistic weight loss targets can often lead to discouragement, research shows that stretch goals—deliberately challenging but attainable targets—can have a powerful effect on early success. Participants in the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet who achieved a stretch goal lost considerably more weight over the 12-week period and maintained this success over the long term.
The study found that nine out of ten participants who reached their stretch goal lost a clinically significant 5% or more of their starting body weight after 12 months. Furthermore, individuals who had more weight to lose benefitted most from stretch goals. Among participants who began in the obese category, 20% achieved their stretch goal and lost an average of 12 kg within 12 weeks—4 kg more than those who reached their personalized goal.
“Stretch goals provide that extra motivation to test what’s achievable,” Dr. Hendrie noted. “These goals are not solely about rapid weight loss, but about creating a rhythm of accomplishment that builds lasting habits.”
Long-Term Weight Management
The research emphasizes that with the right support and personalized guidance, participants can not only achieve their immediate weight loss targets but also develop sustainable habits for long-term health. The study’s findings underscore the importance of continuous guidance and adaptable goal-setting to foster a successful weight loss journey.
Introducing My Journey for 2025
In response to these findings, CSIRO’s Total Wellbeing Diet has launched the My Journey tool, which aims to further enhance Australians’ ability to set, track, and achieve customized weight loss goals with real-time guidance.
“My Journey ensures that goals are specifically tailored to each individual’s circumstances, giving participants the highest chance of success,” Dr. Hendrie explained. “Whether you’re starting fresh this January or continuing on your weight loss path, this program provides the tools and confidence to achieve lasting health goals.”
With the introduction of My Journey, CSIRO continues to lead the way in providing personalized weight loss strategies, setting Australians up for successful health outcomes in 2025.
Related Topics:
How Often Should You Workout to Lose Weight
