I wasn’t sure whether to write this post. I mean, do we really know what’s going to happen in 2021? Obviously, we all hope for the best, an end to the pandemic, races returning, the ability to travel again. I’m not even sure where to start. But, after a little thought, I decided that creating running goals for 2021 was not only possible but an important step in our return to normalcy.
Creating Running Goals for 2021
I do realize that creating running goals for 2021 may look different than it did a year ago. Times seemed simpler when all you had to do was pick a few races, didn’t they? Don’t give up, though, I’m sharing a few ideas for creating running goals that can help you be a stronger, more injury-proof runner, while still having fun.
Creating Racing Goals
As someone who has already had a marathon postponed until later in the year I feel a little hesitant about creating running goals that include real-life races. That being said, I’m going to go ahead and suggest that you do it. I would say that choosing a summer or fall race would be a good idea, but for those of us who love to race, having that goal out there will be inspiring.
Since we’re all coming off a season of, well, nothing, choosing a shorter distance race as a goal might be a good idea. If the race does get canceled, you haven’t invested a lot of time into training.
On the other hand, if you’re like me, you might pick a new distance (marathon? half marathon?), or a new experience (trail race?), that will involve serious training and challenge.
Races will undoubtedly look different in 2021 so make sure you do a little research on what your goal race involves. Most will require masks, at least at the start, and many will have staggered starts. Races may also limit their numbers, so be sure to check the details and sign up early. You might also want to check their deferment policy, just in case.
Virtual Racing
It’s very likely that virtual racing will be with us into 2021, so you might consider a virtual race as a running goal. I was a holdout for a long time, and still (obviously) will always prefer the excitement of a real-life race, but virtual racing can still be fun. Earning the swag, setting a time goal, finding friends to (virtually or not) join you will make a virtual race even more fun.
Virtual Group Runs
Also new to 2020 but worth carrying over into the new year are virtual group runs. With the connection so many of us have with runners all over the world it just makes sense that this is an idea that should keep on. And there are even apps for that! With an app like Racefully, you can virtually run with your friends or join a new tribe and make new running friends. Of course, you don’t need an app. You can keep up with your group via phone too. And don’t forget photos!
Yearly Mileage Goal
Another way of creating running goals for 2021 is to set a mileage goal. I suggest basing your goal on your current mileage, with a slight increase if you’d like to up the ante a bit.
Building Strength
With races and thus race training potentially out of the picture for the first half of the year, think about taking some of that time to really build a strength training program that will help you become a stronger, more injury-proof runner. Make sure to include “prehab” type exercises to increase mobility and core strength as well as running-specific strength exercises that will improve your running.
Mobility for Runners: Improve Your Hip and Ankle Mobility
Essential Core, Hip, and Glute Routine for Runners
8 Essential Strength Exercises for Runners
Base Building
Depending on what your 2020 looked like you might need to spend some time building back your running base. Building up your mileage gradually, then adding a little speed work to the program will help you kick some butt when you finally get back to racing.
Building a Running Base: What it is and Why it’s Important
All in all, it is still possible to create running goals for 2021 no matter what the year is going to bring. In fact, as I said above, it’s a good idea because it will give runners a challenge, increase motivation, and generally make running more fun.
Have you created your goals for 2021 yet?
And Now It’s Time for the Runners’ Roundup!
Weekly Linkups
My weekly linkups! Please stop by and check out all of the great recipes, workouts, and information that all these awesome bloggers share every week!
Meatless Monday with Sarah and Deborah
Inspire Me Monday with Janet
Tuesday Topics with Kim and Zenaida
The Runners’ Roundup with Deborah, Lisa, Jenn, Laura, and Me!
The Weekly Run Down with Deborah and Kim
I’m going to write a post about my goals next week so this is a very timely post for me!
I did a virtual group run this week with some bloggers in Germany and it was great fun. I might incorporate that in my 2021 goals as well.
Happy New Year, Debbie!
I think the virtual group runs sound like fun! I usually run alone but I sometimes miss running with others. I look forward to seeing your 2021 goals!
I totally agree with this! While it’s hard to set goals at this point I think it’s helpful to have something to work towards. And I am hopeful that more races will be happening by the summer and fall.
I’m pretty sure that California will behind the curve with real-life races but I am hoping for summer (or late spring, actually). My Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, which at this point will be my 40th, was postponed from last year to early June, so fingers crossed!
I started a similar post and was not sure where to go with it. I am trying to work on base building and figuring out what my actual goals are. Thanks for giving me lots to think about
I wasn’t sure whether I’d write this post until it was Tuesday morning and I need something! Ha!
I feel the same about 2021. Who knows what will happen and when.
So nothing big planned – just more of the same until we are back to normal.
I’m trying to be optimistic about 2021, especially the second half.
I am definitely in base building mode! I’m not so sure about live races, even in 2021! OTOH, Mr. Judy hasn’t seen his mom in almost a year (she’s in WA). Hoping at some point to travel in 2021 . . .
Also finally got back to making ST more of a priority & am definitely going to try to keep up with that!
I believe that 2021 will be a better year, but I also know that it’s not going to be a better year right from the start. So goals are still hard, but I like to work towards goals, too!
I agree. I really want to see live races but I don’t think we will until at least the second have of the year. Especially in California.
Thanks for this post- you have some great articles here! I’m going to start the ankle mobility exercises because that is an area where I have issues. I’ve been doing a lot of strength training lately, but the 8 Essential Strength Exercises for Runners reminded me that I haven’t been doing anything on one leg- very important and I will add that in!
I haven’t set goals for 2021 yet but I better get to it- it’s time!
Thanks for stopping by! Yes, one-legged exercises are so important. And unilateral exercises in general are good for balanced strength.
Even with so many unknowns awaiting us, we still need to forge onward. My goals are nothing like a year ago (umm, #stressfracture), but that’s not going to keep me sitting still. While I’ve come to respect virtual races, I’ve had more fun just doing virtual “running” with my online friends. We’re still logging the miles, high-5’ing each other (via our phone screens) and taking all the selfies :-). It’s not ideal, but a great “second best “ alternative for the time being. This year, more than ever, my tribe has been my vice 🙂
It was actually your virtual run with Kim and Michelle that made me think to add it to this post! It really is a great way to make the best of a bad situation.
These are all great, and timely, considering we have no idea what’s to come.
I will still do some virtual challenges, and just do my best to go with the flow.
I like the virtual challenges. Mostly because I just have to go out and run, something I’d be doing anyway! Today I start the Zooma Love Run Challenge. Run/Walk at least a mile every day until February 14. My first run streak! Since walking was an option I signed up.
Great post! I’m still debating my goals for 2021 – definitely starting in base-building mode.
Same here, though I feel like much of 2020 was base building. No need for much targeted training when you don’t have any targets! 🙂
I’m really glad you decided to write this. I’m a big believer in setting goals in different areas of my life, including running of course. I think goals really help to keep us on track and even as you say, this year’s goals might look and feel different, they will still help to get us through what may still be a difficult year to come. I love the idea of a mileage goal. So thinking of trying 2021 km. I also have an in-person race scheduled for March (but it’s across the border in South Africa) so things may change before then. Even if the race takes place, I will have to look at travel restrictions in place and also my comfort level of going across to another country at this time. But whatever the case, I’ve decided to train for it and if I don’t get there, I will run the distance on a trail somewhere close to home.
I think a goal of 2021 km is great (I had to google to see what that was in miles lol). I hope your race goes on as scheduled and travel works. My first race which would have been in February was already postponed.
I’m not setting any firm goals for 2021 because like you said, who knows what is going to happen this year? I’ve still got Ice Age on the calendar, moved to May. I’m signed up for the half because I don’t want to commit to the 50k, train for it, and then have it canceled. I am hoping to PR my lifts in the gym, tho. That won’t be canceled!
Happy New Year Debbie and thank you for your friendship and support!
It’s nice to have the gym to set goals for even if it’s not the same. Honestly, I don’t really set goals for the year. I mean if I have actual races I’ll train for them but since PRs aren’t on the plan anymore I don’t have to worry about that!
Hoping for a much better year. It’s nice to have friends that you know will be there for you. <3
Thank you Debbie for mentioning Racefully in your blog post. Our B2B app is helping businesses to look after the physical and mental wellbeing of their employees, with our app being used in over 80 countries across the world! If anyone would like to hear more about how their business can use Racefully to create a virtual running, walking or cycling please email partners@projectx.fitness