It’s
the time of year for reinvention and self improvement.
As 2021 comes to a close, many runners (or soon-to-be
runners) are plotting the list of resolutions they’ll
tackle in the new year. Now that 2022 is here, motivation
to achieve new goals is quite high. But with the whole
new-year-new-you mentality, some of us can get a little
too caught up in the frenzy and commit to a resolution
that isn’t quite down to earth. Below are a few
classic goals that people commit to on January 1 and alternatives
that might make for a smart goal.
Lose weight
Instead try: Make a few solid lifestyle changes that could
result in getting to a healthier weight. For example,
think less about the number on the scale and more about
getting adequate sleep, hydrating with water instead of
sugary beverages and combing that Netflix time with something
active like treadmill running.
Run a marathon
Instead try: Set your sights on a shorter distance earlier
in the year with the intention to work your way up. For
runners who have never been to a start line, a marathon
may be too big of a jump. Committing to something like
a 5K or 10K to get a sense of your personal interest and
fitness level is to set yourself up for success.
Run every day
Instead try: If you’re not currently running or
being active every single day, this is a major change
to commit to. Most people don’t go from couch potato
to avid runner overnight. To make the transition an enjoyable
one, try something like upping your overall weekly mileage
by a certain amount or sitting down and planning a workout
schedule that fits in realistically with other obligations.
And Finally
Set realistic goals and don't be afraid
to re-evaluate those as the year progresses. Positive
and negative forces will come into play. Dealing with
the changed realities in a logical effective manner will
keep you on track to having an outcome that you will be
satisfied or even very pleased with. Good luck with your
smart training.
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