S M A R T

This is interesting.  At work,  I'm evaluated on S.M.A.R.T. goals (and for future reference that doesn't mean smartass... I asked.. ). I never thought this is something I could use with working out ... but check out what I found at www.tips4running.com... 

It works... and it makes you accountable... and it easily makes sense. Try it !!

Smart Goals are important for running, competition, and even your personal life.

Set smart goals because, "If you aren't improving, then you are getting worse." This statement was simply put by a former coach of mine. I find that to be true in athletics, as well as in life. Smart goals can focus on your running and personal life.

Specific. Measurable. Achievable. Realistic. Timetable.

S. M. A. R. T. is an acronym that we use to help set high quality running goals. I use them for the cross country runners I coach, for my running objectives, and other things like financial goals or even family life.

Every week I set new goals for myself. A great objective for running would be, "Run three times this week. Each run must be 25 minutes or longer." After I think of a goal, I make sure it meets every requirement.

Here is a bad example of a goal I might set. "Run some more." Now I will make it into a Smart Goal by breaking it down for each part of S.M.A.R.T.

Is it Specific? No. I would have to change it to maybe, "Run four times."

Is it Measurable? Yes, but it could be better. I could change it to, "Run four times. Each run must be 20 minutes or longer."

Is it Achievable? That depends. If you know your weekly schedule won't allow for this time commitment, you may have to adjust the goals. I could alter it. "Run three times. Each run must be 25 minutes or longer." I decreased the number of times this week, but increased the amount of time ran.

Is it Realistic? Don't set a goal too high. You might set yourself up for disappointment. Also, don't undermine yourself. There is always room for improvement. I believe my goal is realistic so I won't change it. Remember that even if your ultimate goal is to complete a marathon. Stay small with a smart goal as you work towards a larger goal.

Set a Timetable. This part is huge. I said, "Run three times," but I need to add the timeframe. My final goal now looks like this. "Run three times this week. Each run must be 25 minutes or longer."