Top Tips From Runna: How to Choose Your Running Goal

By Runna

Feeling Lost After a Race? Here's How to Set Your Next Running Goal

Are you yet to book in for your first race? Or have you just completed your spring marathon or an 'A' race and are now feeling like you're in limbo?

You spend weeks and months training for a race, follow a new routine, and make sacrifices—all for it to be over in one day. After the high of race day, it’s common to feel a bit bluesy or even lost without the structure your running workouts once provided.

Or maybe you've just taken up running and aren’t sure what goals to set or how to structure your training?

If you're feeling unsure about your next step, this article is for you. We've compiled our top tips to help you plan your next big challenge or simply get started with running and learn to stay consistent.

Because let’s face it: we all run better when we have something to aim for. A clear running goal will give you purpose, motivate you to get out the door, and give you something to celebrate at the end of your plan.

How to Pick SMART Running Goals

To set effective running goals, make sure they are SMART:

Specific: E.g., train for a half-marathon.
Measurable: E.g., book a race in 12 weeks or time yourself during training.
Achievable: E.g., don’t jump straight from a 5k to training for an ultramarathon.
Relevant: E.g., if building endurance is your goal, don’t follow a 5k speed plan.
Time-Based: E.g., set a deadline of 8, 10, 12, or 16 weeks to achieve your goal.

You can have several goals simultaneously. Examples include:

Run three times per week.
Achieve weekly, monthly, or yearly mileage goals.
Complete a sub-2-hour half-marathon.

At Runna, we offer a range of training plans tailored to your goals. Below are five of our most popular categories to inspire your next step.

1. Get Fit and Get Into Running

New to running? Just finished Couch to 5k or want to bring structure to occasional runs?

To improve as a runner, you need to run a few times per week with a mix of easy runs, speed sessions, and long runs. This approach will instill the habit of regular running while helping you get fitter and stronger.

Recommended Goals:

Build a weekly running routine.
Progressively increase mileage.
Complete a 5k or finish a 10k.

Recommended Plans:

New to Running.
Maintenance.
Faster 5k.
10k Plan.

2. Build Your Endurance

Dreaming of completing a marathon, half-marathon, or even an ultramarathon? Long-distance events require commitment, determination, and a tailored training plan.

Recommended Goals:

Finish a half-marathon, marathon, or ultramarathon.
Set a new personal record (PR).
Increase your mileage progressively.

Recommended Plans:

Half-Marathon Plan.
Marathon Plan.
Ultramarathon Plan.

3. Build Your Speed and Fitness

Want to beat your personal best or excel at Parkrun? Training for faster 5k and 10k times will boost your fitness, strength, and speed.

Recommended Goals:

Set a PR for a 5k or 10k.

Recommended Plans:

Faster 5k Plan.
10k Plan.
Half-Marathon Plan.

4. Train for a Race

Booking a race is an excellent way to stay motivated and accountable. Share your goal with family and friends to strengthen your commitment.

Recommended Goals:

Finish a race (5k, 10k, half-marathon, marathon, or ultramarathon).
Achieve a PR.

Recommended Plans:

Faster 5k Plan.
10k Plan.
Half-Marathon Plan.
Marathon Plan.

5. Do a Triathlon

Add variety to your training with a triathlon! Whether it’s a sprint triathlon or a full Ironman, this new challenge will expand your fitness horizons.

Recommended Goals:

Sprint Triathlon.
Olympic Triathlon.

Recommended Plans:

Triathlon Running Plan.

How to Set Race-Related Running Goals

Setting goals based on races is a great way to stay focused. Use the A, B, and C Race Framework to structure your training season:

A Race: Your main goal—train to achieve a PR or complete the distance.
B Race: A tune-up race to test your fitness and strategies.
C Race: A fun, low-pressure race for practice and enjoyment.

If you’re new to running, stick to one race. For seasoned runners, mix and match A, B, and C races strategically.

Post-Race Recovery and Reflection

After a race or training block, give yourself time to rest and reflect.

Rest: Avoid burnout by taking a week off post-race, especially after marathons or ultras.
Reflect: Jot down your highs and lows to improve future training.
Recharge: Focus on the joy of running until you’re ready for the next challenge.

Recommended Plans: