Want to Become a Better Runner in the New Year?

To answer that question: Sure, I think all of us would like to become a better runner next year. But how many of us actually will? Approximately 40-45% of Americans make New Year’s Resolutions but of those, how many can be 100% committed to that resolution throughout the entire year?

As physical therapists, when setting goals for our patients, we use the “SMART” principle. The essentials of goal setting are very similar to that of New Year’s resolutions and it will make it easier for you to end next year with success.

• Make it SPECIFIC: What is your resolution for next year? Throw out the typical resolutions: “I want to lose weight,” or “I want to run faster” and ask yourself, how am I going to be able to get this accomplished? When making your New Year’s resolution specific it becomes really clear. So instead of “I want to run faster,” indicate a specific goal you would like to accomplish like “I would like to set a PR in a local 5K” or “run my first half marathon.”
• Make it MEASURABLE: Make your New Year’s resolution measurable by periods. Let’s use our example of “run my first half marathon.” First, pick out a half marathon you would like to participate in. A few things to consider: big or small race? Time of the year? Set yourself up for success by picking a time of year that you are not as busy so you can train appropriately, etc.
• Make it ATTAINABLE: Not a runner? Or hate running? Then maybe the example of “run my first half marathon” is not for you. Start with a 5K.
• Make it REALISTIC: To avoid chances of failure, be realistic with your resolution.
• Make it measurable by TIME: Set a target date for your resolution, whether it is a specific date of a race or the last day of the year! So sign up for that race you have been thinking about then look into a training schedule to help get you started. There are various resources on the Internet as well as several local running groups that are more than willing to help.

One more thing to consider when making a New Year’s resolution… make it fun and rewarding!  You are doing this for yourself and no one else!

Below are some popular training programs to help get you started:

http://halhigdon.com/
http://www.runnersworld.com/training

Speak to an Athletico physical therapist near you to learn more about our Endurance Program.

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The Athletico blog is an educational resource written by Athletico employees. Athletico bloggers are licensed professionals who abide by the code of ethics outlined by their respective professional associations. The content published in blog posts represents the opinion of the individual author based on their expertise and experience. The content provided in this blog is for informational purposes only, does not constitute medical advice and should not be relied on for making personal health decisions.