Updated Running Goals
I’ll be honest, ever since the marathon, my running plan has been all over the place. I have noticed that after half marathons, I tend to fall off for a bit, then I get right back into it. But right now, I am starting to miss the routine of running on a plan. I loved using an app called Runna. It does cost about $17.99 a month, but I LOVED it for marathon training. They create a custom plan using a specific race date or distance, and through your average mile time. I chose the 16-week plan, and it was always so satisfying to check off a week as complete.
Now that I don’t have anything I’m currently training for, I’m starting to think of my next half-marathon. Before then, I decided to come up with a list of running goals I have for myself. It includes the following:
Become more comfortable running outside
It took me some time to build the courage to run by myself outside. I would always look for company, but I want to build my confidence that I don’t always have to be so scared. I do want to invest in some Shokz headphones, to have that awareness.
I know I just mentioned investing in some new headphones, BUT I’d like to run more without music.
I’ve noticed that when I run without music, my heart rate is lower, and I’m a lot more conscious about my breathing pattern. Whenever I listen to music, I tend to match my pace with the music tempo, so I’d rather just see what I could do without looking at my watch, and without matching my cadence with my music. I have ran before without headphones, and I noticed I ran longer and I didn’t feel as tired after. I’d love to just be more in the moment.
Be better about recovery
I want to be better about my recovery days - as well as stretching. I would rush each stretching session because I would easily get bored. I started bookmarking routines on Instagram, so I want to establish a routine in the morning. I want to have more fun with recovery/stretching, so I think the routine will just become a habit to set me up for success.
Train to PR
I want to beat my half-marathon time. I haven't decided which next race I want to do yet, but I do know I want to be committed to a plan, stretch and fuel properly. It’s easy to give in to days where I don’t have the motivation, but I want to remain consistent to prove myself I can achieve what I want.
“We can’t control the engine we’re given. But how we treat our engine is entirely up to us. It will take us to the moon if we let it.” — Alexi Pappas
