As the year 2021 is coming to an end, have you started setting your running goals for next year? The start of a new year is an ideal time to look ahead and plan your running for the next 12 months.
Been wanting to become a better runner in your last resolution but failed? It is only normal if more than half of your resolutions fail, but this upcoming year, they don’t have to be yours.
It’s up to each individual to make their own goals, so here’s how you can set yourself up for success for 2022 with some of the most popular goals runners have.
Start Running Regularly
Just start running, clock in 4 to 5 times of 15 to 20 minutes, run or jog into your schedule for a week, that’s enough to build fitness and establish a routine without overtraining your body.
For a week, try creating a progress chart and reward structure to fuel your motivation after your initial enthusiasm has ebbed. Once you complete your first week of running workouts, treat yourself to a new pair of running shoes, running attire, or a good meal.
Think Laterally
Your goal could simply be to add new elements to your training. All runners can benefit from core stability or other strength training exercises.
It is beneficial to do cross-training to avoid your body getting into a state of plateau or boredom. This way you can maintain your motivation and achieve your running goals by the end of the year.
Set a 5KM PR
Register for the next upcoming race you see, it could be virtual as the pandemic is still ongoing, or plan for a time trial that plays to your strength. For instance, flat and straight terrain appeal to most runners.
Then you can start your 5KM training by adding 6 to 10 strides to your pre-speedwork warmup to improve your turnover and get acclimated to running fast. You can also try incorporating stride training for 50 meters, rest for 30 seconds, and repeat for 8 times.
Strides are a great way to warm up for your race.
Stay Motivated
Identify what motivates you. It could be running at night, early in the morning, alone, or in groups. Figuring what keeps you going when it comes to running, increases the chances of achieving your running goals.
Here’s what you can try, pick a goal that will get you out the door. You don’t have to train for a race, you just need to run so you can treat yourself to new running gears or so you can get faster and stronger.
Image via : Eat This, Not That
Encourage A Friend
Perhaps this year, you can encourage a friend to run. Running is such an accessible way of staying fit and healthy. Some people just need a gentle push of encouragement, and it can be just as fulfilling to see a friend run their first 5km.
Moreover, you might just land yourself a new running partner to keep each other accountable to be consistent and achieve running goals.
For more information please scan me (QRCode).
For further inquiry please contact us: Max 012-2969969, Christine 012-3590048 or YG 016-2020911.
