If youve taken up running recently, you probably find it exciting to learn what youre capable of.
There are tons of different ways to progress and new goals to chase.
Go for half an hour, a full hour, and so on.
Consistency
Not excited about cranking up the distance?
Try making your training more consistent.
If you only run two or three days a week, try adding another day.
After a couple weeks, if youre feeling good, add another.
(Id stop at six, though; a little rest is important.)
This goal is partly about fitnessworking up to where your body can handle the training load.
But its also about dedication.
Can you plan ahead to double-check you wont have to miss any of your appointments with yourself?
Decide which distance youd like to be faster at reaching.
After all, youd train differently to improve your marathon time than to improve your 5K time.
Look for a training program that meets your goals.
Theres a saying in running that goes something like, You run faster by running more.
You run more by running slower.
Mileage
This isnt the same as distance, because were not talking about a one-time goal.
Then give a shot to gradually increase that number.
Exploring
Not every goal has to be a constantly-increasing number.
Every time I went out, I chose a different path.
(Is a two-miler full of steep hills less of an accomplishment than five miles of flat ground?
Who can say?)
Whatever you choose, make a plan and lace up those shoes.
You may go farther or faster than you ever imaginedor just have a great time.
