Final answer:
Eating a balanced diet is an example of a general or long-term fitness goal, as it represents a sustainable lifestyle change that contributes to overall well-being.
Step-by-step explanation:
Among the options provided, eating a balanced diet is an example of a general or long-term fitness goal. A balanced diet involves consistently choosing a variety of nutritious foods from all the food groups, which supports sustained health improvements and weight control over time. The other options, such as losing 5 pounds in a month or completing a 5k race, are more specific and short-term goals. Regular gym attendance is also important but is more of a habit or strategy to achieve broader fitness goals rather than a goal in itself.
Long-term fitness goals typically involve making lifestyle changes that contribute to overall well-being and can be maintained for life, rather than just for a brief period. This approach aligns with recommendations from healthcare professionals, such as those from the National Weight Control Registry (NWCR), which emphasizes the importance of combining dietary changes with increased physical activity for effective and sustainable weight loss.