Creating Goals that Work for YOU
Reprinted from:
Peak Running Performance
As you began your running program, you probably created a mental list
of the reasons why you want to start running. Now you're ready to
translate those "reasons why" into goals. To do that you'll have to start
thinking about goals in a new way. Most people think of a goal as a
destination-where you want to go. Actually, goals are the road map that
gets you there. They reassure you. They tell you that you're not lost,
that you're doing a good job, that there's not much farther to go.
But what good is a map if you don't follow it, or can't follow it?
You'll never get anywhere. That's why it's important to set goals that
work for you. Here are some things to consider when you create goals:
- Set challenging, yet realistic goals:
Be honest in evaluating your abilities as an athlete-your abilities
may even exceed what you imagine them to be! Be realistic about the
amount of time and energy you can put into your program. An unrealistic
goal will only lead to frustration and disappointment. On the other
hand, a goal that is too easy and immediately obtainable provides no
sense of accomplishment. For example, if your goal is to run 7 days a
week, but you haven't been working out consistently, your goal is too
ambitious. Try starting with 3 days a week. After a few months, add an
additional day to your schedule.
- Create measurable goals:
Your goals should be specific, not general. This allows you to
measure your progress and make adjustments. If you say to yourself, "I'm
going to really work hard today," how will you determine whether this
goal has been met? On the other hand, if your goal is to run for 35
minutes, you'll know just where you stand.
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