Monday, January 3, 2011

Resolutions Fail. Set a SMART Goal.


As you all know, I believe in SMART goals (specific, measurable, attainable, realistic and timely). I realized in the last few months, that I lost sight of this.  I slacked off because I wasn't reaching for anything.  I didn't have any goal in mind or in sight, other than 'don't be so heavy'.  That is not enough.  It needs to be something I can reach out and taste and it needs to be in a time period that doesn't seem like it is so far in the future that I won't see any wins in the near future.  I need wins people.
So, is my goal to lose xx lbs of pounds in 2011?  Nope.  Is it to run xx miles?  Nope.

My goal is to train for the next 15 weeks for a half marathon.  April 17, 2011, I will run the Unite Half Marathon at Rutgers University.  To do this, I am going to follow Hal Higdon's half-marathon training program.  I will measure my performance by completing the required miles, strength and cross training regimen.  I will document my fitness progress on Daily Mile.
I will continue to use HMR program to eat around 1200+ calories per day.  I will document my food intake in my journal.

Separately, I will also begin to weigh and measure myself once per week, to track ongoing progress.  However, the numbers here are not part of my goal.  My feeling is my goal will produce results as an after effect, because really, my long term aspiration is to be an athlete, and not to be thin. 

I have a younger brother who is a collegiate, record-setting runner.  He is like a lung, surrounded by long lengthy muscles.  We couldn't be more different in physique.  Well, at least at the moment!  Watch out world.  Here I come!

6 comments:

  1. Great job Missa! Can't wait to hear about your training...and the half!

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  2. Hi Missa!

    I've run a few Philly half marathons! I loved the crowds and the course was fun with the river and all. I don't know much about you but that said I feel I need to caution you on two fronts. If you do not have much running experience training and running a half is an invitation to get injured. The training is everything so take it slow, wear good cushioned shoes, train on a soft surface like grass or dirt (be careful of holes), and do not heel strike as you run (mid foot strike). Also 1200 calories seems sort of low to me if you are going to be running. Running burns about 100 calories a mile, so if you are really training you will need energy. Maybe 1500-2000 is a better goal.

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  3. I have no doubt you can do this Missa! Keep us updated!!!! :)

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  4. I just came across your health and fitness blog. Your article about setting smarter goals for yourself was especially interesting. I especially liked your comments about taking your weight loss goals one step at a time to get the results you want. I am adding you to my favorites. Since you and your readers are interested in health and fitness, we thought you would like to check out our ab workout machine called The AbStand. The AbStand is a full-body workout machine that provides an easy way for you to keep your New Year's resolution! Any feedback would be appreciated as well. Thanks!

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  5. would love an update as to how your training is going!

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