Do you set running goals?

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When I set my two big running goals for 2015, I knew I would have to be very diligent with my exercise schedule, especially cross training. I was also lucky enough to receive the Believe Training Journal for Christmas and I have enjoyed using it to track my weekly mileage and other workouts.


Last week I came across this great article on Goal-Setting Advice for Runners. It gives 10 simple steps to set realistic goals that will work with any schedule.


1. Achieve more with mini goals. It’s only February so it’s still very daunting to think about completing 14 more half marathons this year, so I like to set small monthly goals for myself with my Nike+ running app. This helps me to stay on track and to not get overwhelmed.


2. Learn to go with the flow. I love this because no matter how much you plan, life happens. Also the weather is often unpredictable in the Northeast/New England and sometimes your planned long run outside turns into a date with your treadmill (this has happened to me a few times this winter!)


3. Unlock the secret to proper marathon training. This one is pretty simple, just run often!


4. Focus on the positive. Easier said than done but it’s very true. When you focus on the negative, its very hard to get out of that head space. We all have bad/long days at work, but we shouldn’t let that affect our workouts. 


5. Strike a balance. Last year I was all about the PR. This year my main goal is to stay healthy so that I can actually enjoy my races. 

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6. Become a stronger (not just faster) runner. I’m a strong believer in cross-training so that is why I teach spinning classes and take boot camp classes every week. I’ll also be introducing yoga into the mix as well.


7. Set realistic performance goals based on last season. Not really concerned about a PR this year. If it happens, that’s great but I’m trying to focus on becoming a smarter and stronger runner.


8. Diversify your running. Although I’m mainly focusing on half marathons this year, I have a few local 5K and 10K races in my schedule as well. I think the 5K race will always be my favorite distance!


9. Don’t know how to improve? There’s a coach for that. Last year I completed a half marathon training program through my local Fleet Feet store. We had a training program and coached runs twice a week. I am still using that knowledge, and those training plans, to get me through this year.


10. Hurdle your mental blocks. I struggle with this on my treadmill runs. It’s so easy to focus too much on the run and how much you hate it or want to stop. When i find myself going to that place I try to focus on my music.




Do you set running goals for yourself? Do you find the information in the article helpful?