From the Middle of the Pack: Setting Goals

Back at the beginning of 2011, I set a personal goal:  run 1,000 miles in 2011.  For some runners, this is a very modest goal; one of my friends will run 3,000 miles this year.  For me, it is a fairly substantial goal, more mileage than I have ever run in a year.  But the key for me is, it's a goal.

Setting training goals really works well for me.  I find that when I don't have one, the consistency and intensity of my training starts to slip.  It becomes easier to skip a training session and do something less healthy.  So I always try to keep some type of training goal in place, to keep my motivation high.
 
So how am I doing in achieving my mileage goal?  I am currently at 972 miles, with about two weeks to go in the year.  A typical run for me is around 7 miles, so a few more sessions and I will meet my goal.

I always try to have a couple of goals in play at any time.  For instance, in addition to my annual mileage goal, I have a race goal.  I plan to run the Brookings, SD Marathon in May, 2012.  My marathon experience in 2011 was pretty bumpy, including my slowest finishing time to date.  So I am planning to train hard and get my finishing time back down into the range I know I can achieve.  I'll start training in February, gradually increasing my weekly mileage over an 18 week period.

Another goal I have is to run a marathon in every state (that explains the trip to Brookings, SD).I've completed marathons in 8 states, with a goal of reaching the 10-state mark in 2012.  Pursuing this goal has really helped keep me engaged in running.

What are my 2012 goals?  In addition to the marathon goal I mentioned, I will up my mileage goal, probably to 1200 miles.  I am certain I will also set some other goals during the year, such as running a half marathon or trail race.  But whatever goals I set, they are sure to motivate me.

So set a goal (or two) for yourself, and watch your motivation improve.  See you in the middle of the pack!