How to Set a Running Goal and Stay on Track: A Step-by-Step Guide

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If there’s one thing we often return to when it comes to motivation, sticking with a routine and continuing to progress as a runner, it’s the importance of a goal.

Now, that goal could be anything from running injury free to completing a certain race or distance – there’s no right or wrong answer. But having that goal or ‘why’ will help – it’ll help you get the job done, it’ll help you keep it fun and it’ll help you believe in yourself.

We put together a step-by-step guide to help you set a running goal and keep it present throughout your training year. These tips will give you the boost and edge you need to achieve your running goals, stay motivated, and keep running fun. Here they are:

1. Establish Your Ambitions

First, think about what you actually want to achieve with your running. Do you want to run faster, longer or perhaps improve your overall health and well-being? Do you want to complete a specific race or adventure? Do you want to challenge yourself in a new way? Or maybe you just want to have fun and relieve stress? Those are all equally valid ambitions.

2. Write Down a Specific Goal

Write down your goal in one sentence, and make it as specific as possible. For example, instead of saying “I want to run Fjällmaraton”, say “I want to run Fjällmaraton on August 6th, and I want to do it under 5 and half hours”.

3. Determine Why Your Goal Is Important

Ponder why your goal is important to you. Write down the benefits of achieving it, including how it will make you feel. This will help you stay motivated and focused as you work towards it.

4. Break Down Your Goal Into Smaller Steps

Break down your goal into smaller steps. Consider the skills you need to learn, the habits you need to change and the progress you need to track. Make a training plan with realistic mini-goals to help you stay on track.

5. Share Your Goal

Share your goal with someone. You don’t need to share it with the whole world through social media, but sharing it with someone who supports you will help you stay accountable and committed.

6. Regularly Review Your Goal

Review your goal regularly. Has your focus drifted off? Are you doing everything needed to reach your goal? Are you hitting the right volumes and doing the right sessions? Adjust your training plan if needed, based on your progress.

Setting a running goal is crucial to make progress as a runner 🚀 By getting to know your “why”, clearly identifying your goal, and creating a plan to get there while regularly checking in with yourself, you’re putting yourself in a position to succeed.

Remember to break down your goal into smaller, achievable steps and plan your training accordingly. This will help you stay motivated, avoid injury and make consistent progress towards your goal. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself – you can accomplish a lot with a little know-how and dedication.