Which of the following is an appropriate goal for a client in the pre-contemplation stage of change?

• A. Reduce caloric intake by 500 cal/day
• B. Research the benefits of regular exercise on mood and cardiac health
• C. Research gyms and tour three facilities in your area
• D. Begin using a phone application for tracking daily calorie expenditure

Answer: (C)

In the pre-contemplation stage, the main aim is to raise awareness and spark curiosity about change rather than push for action. The best goal is one that helps the client explore options without committing to a specific behavior yet, creating a gentle entry into considering change.

Researching gyms and touring three facilities fits this well. It invites the client to encounter real-world possibilities, see what changing might look like in practice, and begin weighing benefits and barriers—without requiring them to start a new routine immediately. This kind of exploratory step can reduce uncertainty and resistance, nudging them toward contemplation.

The other options demand concrete action or new routines right away (reducing calories, using a tracking app) or focus on abstract information (benefits) without offering experiential exposure. Those are more aligned with later stages where readiness to change is present.