At the start of every year, running legend Kara Goucher sets a goal to run the same number of miles as the year — so, that would mean 2,022 miles for the year that starts tomorrow. (That’s a little ambitious for me!!)
Do you have a running resolution, or a goal you’re trying to reach, in the new year? How did you pick it, and what makes it meaningful to you? I’d love to hear your thoughts as I figure out my own goals and dreams for the year. — Terrell
To use Galloway walk/run method more, stress about training a bit less and enjoy the trails, take time to pause and appreciate the moment- especially on long runs. Maybe go on pilgrimage! Each Mile is worth it.
My fitness goal is to lose 30 pounds. I have slowly been gaining weight over the past 3-4 years and i want to end it. My life goal is to start a family. Me and my wife have been trying but have not had much luck but i have a feeling 2022 is the year. God bless and happy new year all.
Not a big resolution person over here...but my running one is to get injury free (my left foot is currently a war zone...partial tears and tendonopathy in basically the whole foot); then run for the joy of running. Stop the over training, over "racing" and just enjoy!
As an aside, got some "bad" news - got "runner's knee" in the beginning of December, which has really been a downer for me. It's not just about the running, which itself is significant, it's about all of the things I still want to accomplish this winter [winter is my race running season in Florida - haha]. Not liking the need to be patient and wait this out - haven't had so much as a a cold in likely 10+ years and now I've got to wait. Already had to defer a race [January in Key West] and had another in mind for February that I'm still hopeful for. Any advice from the group is always welcome - not "depressed" but definitely frustrated. Have been able to workout using elliptical machines and continued my weight training [as was before] just feel the running does so much more for me than simply provide the exercise [thinking process, clears my mind, allows me to organize thoughts and activities, etc.].
Well... I'm both Irish and "dumb". Was told to minimize all activity but I don't know how to do that so...It's improving but likely slower than if I did otherwise. Haven't run on it, beyond ref'g b'ball games, as I could not do it for a sustained time. I'm hoping that I'll get back on the road near the end of January and realistically compete in a half the end of March! Seems such a long time away though... Thx for the reply and thoughts - misery in this case does love company!
My mileage goal is 2022 kilometers. 1256 miles. For me it'll be nearly all walking, but I take my current walking as seriously as I did my past running. I'm planning on walking a few half-marathons in 2022, too.
It's a big leap. I walked about half that this year, with multiple injuries, COVID, etc. I think I can do this if I'm careful and don't push it. I'm 60, and my body is being annoying. :)
Happy new year to all! My goal is to complete my first marathon - I only started running 3.5 years ago, and at 51 this may be an ambitious goals but it's going to keep me focused!
Happy New Year! Still snow and Ice here in the PacNW. It's been a week, but there is rain in sight this afternoon! In thinking about it, my goals for this year are mainly non-goals! I too easily get roped in by all the "Early Bird Pricing" on Half Marathons and then I have to do them. It's a little bit like Seed Catalogues that show up in January. It all looks so good in the winter, but then I have to do it. . .which takes work and sometimes disappointment in not finishing.
This year, I'm going to focus on running 3-5 days per week, no particular distance. I've mapped out a 10K run in SF in July. The rest is going to stay open. Hopefully, it will be filled with training later on with the Half Marathon that we choose to run as a group. Trying to be pragmatic is probably the hardest goal I can take on. All the best for 2022 to everyone! :)
I am going to run some new half marathons this coming year. I have one here in Las Vegas at Red Rock National Conservation Area in January. There is another one at Cedar Breaks National Monument/Brian Head, Utah in August that looks good. Other than that I want to continue to run & enjoy it. ☺️
Agreed. It’s a gem. The first 5 miles of the race are uphill, so it will be a challenge, but it’s so beautiful there, I’m going to be inspired to keep going. :0)
Should be fun! Red Rock is right behind my brother's house in Summerlin. The run is all downhill. He says to watch for sidewinders. They love the warm road!
I’m currently resigned to walking following rotator cuff surgery 3 weeks ago. Had to switch from Little Rock full to the half marathon in early March due to sling and no-no’s from hubby and doctor. Look forward to a good year once healed. Cheers to you all!
Happy Healing!!! A Safe and full recovery to you......LOL....it is crazy that we need a doctor and husband to point out that healing takes time and a little restraint......Enjoy your Half......I know you will nail it!!!
I’m hoping to get back to training next week in preparation for the Berkeley half which is now scheduled for February (after three postponements). Keeping my fingers crossed and my hopes up for a better healthier year for all of us. Happy New Year to everyone!
Just recovering from knee surgery.......a little over 24 hours after surgery.......my knee feels better now that it has over the last few months since the injury......my goal is rehab and get back to running at a safe and injury free pace.......to remember that I set the goals and do not have to compete with anyone else!!! It is my run......so I set the pace and distance. However I love to read of the those who fun faster and longer........you are my inspiration !!!
I was considering the 2022-mile goal for this year but did the math and realized that meant an average of 38+ miles per week. In 45 years of running (3 marathons and 34 Halfs) I have never run that many miles in a given week. So, now I am having to rethink my goal. Staying healthy and injury free is always up there, as is losing a few pounds. So, now my goal is to run a half marathon in 4 different states this year, as I continue towards the "50 states" goal I hope to accomplish by the end of my life.
2022 miles is actually only 5.54 miles a day so maybe, actually this being my first full year of organized running I have already plotted 26 races in 52 weeks with a combination of 5K's, 10K's and halfs. That is my goal for this year. It was to start tomorrow at the Frozen rails in Midway, Ky., but severe weather caused it to postpone until Sunday. This being Kentucky it will be in near freezing temps with snow flurries Sunday instead of humid 70 and thunderstorms on Saturday..
I've been a marathoner for 40 years (since I was 16 years old), and I stopped running about year ago to care for my husband Jon (also a marathoner) who has early-onset Alzheimer's, diagnosed at 54. My goal is to get back to running again and train for the next Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in April -- in honor of Jon who's now in a memory care facility. My heart is heavy since I'll be training without him, but I've got to hope I can get back out there and run.
My heart breaks for you.......families that have faced caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's and especially for one so young are very special people. I am glad that you have running to take you away and help build you up. It may be with a heavy heart but it is important that you take the time for you. Do it and then share the experience with Jon......There are those fleeting moments of clarity and I know he will be happy for you. Blessings, Dear Lady.
That is a beautiful and bittersweet goal. I hope the journey to achieve it lifts your understandably heavy heart along the away. One day and one step at a time Kristin. I believe in you and in the therapy of running for someone you love!
LOL.......I am 72 and just recovering from knee surgery on an torn meniscus.......running is a few months away for me but can't wait to get back to it.......your goals are similar to mine and yes it is usually pretty easy to place if not excel in our age group!!! Have an amazing year!!!!
Several years ago I created a Running bucket for my self. For every mile I run in a calendar year, I put one dollar in the bucket. The lid is like a piggy bank( albeit a jagged cut so it would hurt if I stuck my finger in there) and the container is taped shut so I cannot sneak in and take money out. At the end of the year, I will break the seal and count out the amount of money I have accumulated. Each year I use that money for race entry fees, new shoes, anything related to my running really. My goal is to increase the miles each year. I will be breaking that seal tomorrow to see if I surpassed my miles from the previous year. Happy New Year!
That's marvelous! I think I did an equal amount or more on the challenge for MapMyRun--(1021K) only I didn't get paid! This year, it will be different! Wouldn't it be great if we all did this?? :)
Trying to get fully healthy and healed as I hurt my right calf (grade 2 strain) while running the NYC marathon - I have realized how much I miss running as the doctor has told me to shut it down for 2 months - once healthy, my resolution is to enjoy it more, see the sights & not be as focused on qualifying times (that will come).
Happy new year! Trail running is my favorite form of running, but I'm a flatlander who lives in a valley, and my last two mountain races left me drained and hobbling. My goal for 2022 is to spend more time (at least once a month) in the mountains not only for running but also for camping and generally improved quality of life.
Thanks! I'm in Sacramento, so the wee elevation changes start in the Folsom (about a 20- minute drive), but the mountains (the famous Auburn State Recreation Area!) are 40+ minutes away. It's definitely close enough that a minimum of 1x/month is easily doable despite work interfering with my personal life. ;)
My 2022 goal is to run my first marathon. I ran my first half (Baltimore) in Fall of 2009 when my youngest started kindergarten and in Fall of 2022 my youngest will be off to college. I’ve registered for a Marine Corps Marathon charity bib as part of Team Semper K9, an organization that trains and places rescue dogs with veterans in need of assistance. As a rescue dog mom who lived and worked on Capitol Hill many years ago, I’m inspired and grateful for the opportunity to achieve this goal for a great cause in my favorite city!
The Chicago Marathon is Amazing!!!! I have not run it but have run the 5K with some of the runners on race week end ......and done a Half and 15K there..........Chicago loves their runners!!!!
I was running about 4-5, then I got hurt in early December and had to lay off for a month. So now I'm building back up -- maybe I'm being too conservative on my goal, and can reach 1,000 more easily than I think. I've run twice this week and plan to be back to 3 times a week by next week, and hopefully 4-5 soon after that. We will see!
You can do it..........I reached just under 800 and that was with a foot infection that took me out for a few weeks and not running since November 1 (I tore my meniscus)......at age 72.......you got this!!!
To use Galloway walk/run method more, stress about training a bit less and enjoy the trails, take time to pause and appreciate the moment- especially on long runs. Maybe go on pilgrimage! Each Mile is worth it.
Cool, thx. Gonna look tonite! Appreciate it…
My fitness goal is to lose 30 pounds. I have slowly been gaining weight over the past 3-4 years and i want to end it. My life goal is to start a family. Me and my wife have been trying but have not had much luck but i have a feeling 2022 is the year. God bless and happy new year all.
Not a big resolution person over here...but my running one is to get injury free (my left foot is currently a war zone...partial tears and tendonopathy in basically the whole foot); then run for the joy of running. Stop the over training, over "racing" and just enjoy!
As an aside, got some "bad" news - got "runner's knee" in the beginning of December, which has really been a downer for me. It's not just about the running, which itself is significant, it's about all of the things I still want to accomplish this winter [winter is my race running season in Florida - haha]. Not liking the need to be patient and wait this out - haven't had so much as a a cold in likely 10+ years and now I've got to wait. Already had to defer a race [January in Key West] and had another in mind for February that I'm still hopeful for. Any advice from the group is always welcome - not "depressed" but definitely frustrated. Have been able to workout using elliptical machines and continued my weight training [as was before] just feel the running does so much more for me than simply provide the exercise [thinking process, clears my mind, allows me to organize thoughts and activities, etc.].
Been there!! I found laser therapy helped and also compression knee braces (Sparthos, which you can get on amazon) Good luck!
Hang in there.
Thx Brian
Oh, Stan, that's a bummer! Can you walk, or do you have to lay off the knee completely?
Well... I'm both Irish and "dumb". Was told to minimize all activity but I don't know how to do that so...It's improving but likely slower than if I did otherwise. Haven't run on it, beyond ref'g b'ball games, as I could not do it for a sustained time. I'm hoping that I'll get back on the road near the end of January and realistically compete in a half the end of March! Seems such a long time away though... Thx for the reply and thoughts - misery in this case does love company!
GM & HNY! It's funny, I've never considered creating a running goal but it actually makes sense. Got to look into this...
My mileage goal is 2022 kilometers. 1256 miles. For me it'll be nearly all walking, but I take my current walking as seriously as I did my past running. I'm planning on walking a few half-marathons in 2022, too.
It's a big leap. I walked about half that this year, with multiple injuries, COVID, etc. I think I can do this if I'm careful and don't push it. I'm 60, and my body is being annoying. :)
Happy new year to all! My goal is to complete my first marathon - I only started running 3.5 years ago, and at 51 this may be an ambitious goals but it's going to keep me focused!
I think of it as motivation to get me out the door or on my treadmill depending on the weather!
Although it may sound easy, I have a goal to drink more water each day ... whether I run that day or not. Maybe putting it in writing will help.
May everyone have a healthy, peaceful new year! Thank you!
Happy New Year! Still snow and Ice here in the PacNW. It's been a week, but there is rain in sight this afternoon! In thinking about it, my goals for this year are mainly non-goals! I too easily get roped in by all the "Early Bird Pricing" on Half Marathons and then I have to do them. It's a little bit like Seed Catalogues that show up in January. It all looks so good in the winter, but then I have to do it. . .which takes work and sometimes disappointment in not finishing.
This year, I'm going to focus on running 3-5 days per week, no particular distance. I've mapped out a 10K run in SF in July. The rest is going to stay open. Hopefully, it will be filled with training later on with the Half Marathon that we choose to run as a group. Trying to be pragmatic is probably the hardest goal I can take on. All the best for 2022 to everyone! :)
I am going to run some new half marathons this coming year. I have one here in Las Vegas at Red Rock National Conservation Area in January. There is another one at Cedar Breaks National Monument/Brian Head, Utah in August that looks good. Other than that I want to continue to run & enjoy it. ☺️
I visited Red Rock a few years ago. What a treasure! And so close to Vegas!
Agreed. It’s a gem. The first 5 miles of the race are uphill, so it will be a challenge, but it’s so beautiful there, I’m going to be inspired to keep going. :0)
5 uphill is just a warm-up! After that, you can coast. Good Luck!
Should be fun! Red Rock is right behind my brother's house in Summerlin. The run is all downhill. He says to watch for sidewinders. They love the warm road!
I’m currently resigned to walking following rotator cuff surgery 3 weeks ago. Had to switch from Little Rock full to the half marathon in early March due to sling and no-no’s from hubby and doctor. Look forward to a good year once healed. Cheers to you all!
Good luck with the recovery Susan - do that Physical Therapy - it really makes a difference!
Yes, happy healing!.That surgery takes some good PT rehab. You can do it! Best wishes!!!
🙂
Happy Healing!!! A Safe and full recovery to you......LOL....it is crazy that we need a doctor and husband to point out that healing takes time and a little restraint......Enjoy your Half......I know you will nail it!!!
Thanks, healthy New Year to you!
I’m hoping to get back to training next week in preparation for the Berkeley half which is now scheduled for February (after three postponements). Keeping my fingers crossed and my hopes up for a better healthier year for all of us. Happy New Year to everyone!
I'm signed up for my first duathlon in April. I'd like to do several half marathons in 2022 also.
Just recovering from knee surgery.......a little over 24 hours after surgery.......my knee feels better now that it has over the last few months since the injury......my goal is rehab and get back to running at a safe and injury free pace.......to remember that I set the goals and do not have to compete with anyone else!!! It is my run......so I set the pace and distance. However I love to read of the those who fun faster and longer........you are my inspiration !!!
Wishing you rapid healing and after rehab, an adventure-filled year, Marianne.
I was considering the 2022-mile goal for this year but did the math and realized that meant an average of 38+ miles per week. In 45 years of running (3 marathons and 34 Halfs) I have never run that many miles in a given week. So, now I am having to rethink my goal. Staying healthy and injury free is always up there, as is losing a few pounds. So, now my goal is to run a half marathon in 4 different states this year, as I continue towards the "50 states" goal I hope to accomplish by the end of my life.
A fun goal, goal, Denise. Enjoy the 50-state experience.
Stay healthy and injury free!
Right there with you, Belle!
My goal is to run every day, no matter how long! 🤞
Sounds like a plan, thanks, and success to you.
That’s a great goal! I might try that too.
We can do it! And I'll be cheering you on! 🤩
2022 miles is actually only 5.54 miles a day so maybe, actually this being my first full year of organized running I have already plotted 26 races in 52 weeks with a combination of 5K's, 10K's and halfs. That is my goal for this year. It was to start tomorrow at the Frozen rails in Midway, Ky., but severe weather caused it to postpone until Sunday. This being Kentucky it will be in near freezing temps with snow flurries Sunday instead of humid 70 and thunderstorms on Saturday..
Our run/walk group has a New Year’s Day run planned. But as in Midway, we’re expecting bad weather in Cabot, near Little Rock, AR
I've been a marathoner for 40 years (since I was 16 years old), and I stopped running about year ago to care for my husband Jon (also a marathoner) who has early-onset Alzheimer's, diagnosed at 54. My goal is to get back to running again and train for the next Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon in April -- in honor of Jon who's now in a memory care facility. My heart is heavy since I'll be training without him, but I've got to hope I can get back out there and run.
Wishing you strength and peace!
My heart breaks for you.......families that have faced caring for loved ones with Alzheimer's and especially for one so young are very special people. I am glad that you have running to take you away and help build you up. It may be with a heavy heart but it is important that you take the time for you. Do it and then share the experience with Jon......There are those fleeting moments of clarity and I know he will be happy for you. Blessings, Dear Lady.
You are so very kind, Marianne. I appreciate your encouraging words more than you know. ❤
Jon has been fortunate to have you as a loving mate. And I feel he’d be urging and cheering you on.
My heart goes out to you, Kristin — what an incredibly touching way to honor your husband. I’m sure we’ll all be with you in spirit 🙌
Wow, these comments are so nice! What a supportive community you've built here, Terrell.
That’s the thing I love most about writing this newsletter—and, everyone here has built it with me 🙌
That is a beautiful and bittersweet goal. I hope the journey to achieve it lifts your understandably heavy heart along the away. One day and one step at a time Kristin. I believe in you and in the therapy of running for someone you love!
Kara, that is so sweet and means a lot to me. Thank you for your words of support!
You are a wonderful person, Kristin! I totally believe in you. Thinking of you and Jon this new year's.
Thank you so much, Alex!
I started “running” last month after 12 years away from it. Since I turn 74 next week, I figured I shouldn’t wait any longer to get started.
Goals:
Health: train smart throughout 2022 without serious injury, lose 10 pounds and improve my diet, shock my doctor 😀
Social: Meet new and interesting people, some of which I can train with and be friends with for life
Performance: for an entire 5k move up from shuffle/walk to jogging (<12 m/mi)
Trail running: By all means. Get out and explore lots of parks, forests and greenways each month
Accomplishments: Complete a half marathon in under 3 hours. Pick up a few 5k age-group awards along the way (not too hard in the 70+ group)
Give back: Volunteer at some races
Pass-it-on: Encourage at least one youngster (granddaughter/niece?) to start running
LOL.......I am 72 and just recovering from knee surgery on an torn meniscus.......running is a few months away for me but can't wait to get back to it.......your goals are similar to mine and yes it is usually pretty easy to place if not excel in our age group!!! Have an amazing year!!!!
Several years ago I created a Running bucket for my self. For every mile I run in a calendar year, I put one dollar in the bucket. The lid is like a piggy bank( albeit a jagged cut so it would hurt if I stuck my finger in there) and the container is taped shut so I cannot sneak in and take money out. At the end of the year, I will break the seal and count out the amount of money I have accumulated. Each year I use that money for race entry fees, new shoes, anything related to my running really. My goal is to increase the miles each year. I will be breaking that seal tomorrow to see if I surpassed my miles from the previous year. Happy New Year!
Fun! And helpful!
Now that's an idea. I think I'll use it myself!
I counted up my miles this morning…$1176.00! I love setting this goal to pass this number every year! 1200 miles here I come!
That's marvelous! I think I did an equal amount or more on the challenge for MapMyRun--(1021K) only I didn't get paid! This year, it will be different! Wouldn't it be great if we all did this?? :)
Way to go!!! 🙌
i like this idea...
Trying to get fully healthy and healed as I hurt my right calf (grade 2 strain) while running the NYC marathon - I have realized how much I miss running as the doctor has told me to shut it down for 2 months - once healthy, my resolution is to enjoy it more, see the sights & not be as focused on qualifying times (that will come).
being more consistent and learning to accept and enjoy my new reality of slow pace and shorter distances. Happy Trails
🙌 Right back at you!
Happy new year! Trail running is my favorite form of running, but I'm a flatlander who lives in a valley, and my last two mountain races left me drained and hobbling. My goal for 2022 is to spend more time (at least once a month) in the mountains not only for running but also for camping and generally improved quality of life.
Be well, everybody!
I LOVE this goal, Vanessa -- this is really good. What mountains are you near by? (Or do you plan to travel to mountains more?)
Thanks! I'm in Sacramento, so the wee elevation changes start in the Folsom (about a 20- minute drive), but the mountains (the famous Auburn State Recreation Area!) are 40+ minutes away. It's definitely close enough that a minimum of 1x/month is easily doable despite work interfering with my personal life. ;)
My 2022 goal is to run my first marathon. I ran my first half (Baltimore) in Fall of 2009 when my youngest started kindergarten and in Fall of 2022 my youngest will be off to college. I’ve registered for a Marine Corps Marathon charity bib as part of Team Semper K9, an organization that trains and places rescue dogs with veterans in need of assistance. As a rescue dog mom who lived and worked on Capitol Hill many years ago, I’m inspired and grateful for the opportunity to achieve this goal for a great cause in my favorite city!
This is wonderful. Have a great run on marathon day!
I love this, Kara!
I also have an inspiring book recommendation, Out And Back, A runner’s story of survival against all odds by Hillary Allen.
We should read that in our book club! I'm Googling now...
Break 2 hours in a half in the spring and run my first full in the fall
Wow! Those are great -- which full are you planning on?
Chicago or there's one in St Louis around the same time
The Chicago Marathon is Amazing!!!! I have not run it but have run the 5K with some of the runners on race week end ......and done a Half and 15K there..........Chicago loves their runners!!!!
Run my first marathon in April.
Awesome! Which one?
The Milwaukee Marathon. Also looking at trying the MAF training to run better, any thoughts on this?
I'll start off with mine: 1,000 miles for the year. (Realistically, I'll reach 700-800, but I'd love to reach 1,000 for the year.)
Hi Terrell! How many days a week do you run?
I was running about 4-5, then I got hurt in early December and had to lay off for a month. So now I'm building back up -- maybe I'm being too conservative on my goal, and can reach 1,000 more easily than I think. I've run twice this week and plan to be back to 3 times a week by next week, and hopefully 4-5 soon after that. We will see!
You can do it..........I reached just under 800 and that was with a foot infection that took me out for a few weeks and not running since November 1 (I tore my meniscus)......at age 72.......you got this!!!