Autumn running and race goals

Autumn is here and I for one am loving the transition to autumn running kit and being able to sleep under the duvet again. But as autumn sets in, those autumn races are fast approaching – including my own!

This October I’m running the Great Eastern Run in Peterborough. When I signed up 10 weeks ago, I was in the middle of training for the 5k distance and a half marathon sounded a long way to run. Probably because it is so kudos to anyone else attempting it.

This week the organisers emailed everyone to check their anticipated race time as it was the last opportunity to adjust it before race numbers are printed and pens assigned. I logged in to see what I’d entered 10 weeks ago and what had seemed wildly ambitious back then suddenly felt a little too comfortable. It’s funny how a few good weeks of training can do that.

So, after weighing up whether I’d feel more disappointed in myself for being too bold and blowing up half way round or playing it safe and finishing with more in the tank I decided to take a few minutes off my prediction.

It’s always difficult to choose your race goal because you never truly know how things are going to pan out and every runner needs to weigh up what’s most important to them. I’ve run plenty of races where I’ve been happy running at a comfortable pace and finishing with a smile.

Remember though that goals are adjustable – you don’t need an email from a race organiser to prompt you to reassess what your goal should be.

When we set out training for a race we have a goal in mind – even if that goal is to have fun. But as the race gets closer it’s important to consider that goal again: is it still realistic or do we need to adjust it? Could we afford to be a little more ambitious or do we need to roll back on our aims this time? All of that will depend on how your training has gone over the weeks.

The most important thing, though, is that you set a goal that is important to you and based on your aims and abilities. Don’t let other people’s expectations of what you should be aiming for overrule your mission.

Thank you to adidas for sending me the kit I’m wearing in this pic: adidas Adizero Boston 12 running shoes; Daily Run 3 stripe 7/8 leggings and Run Icons Long Sleeve Running Top.