Setting Running Goals for 2021
By: Bradley S.
Tags: Fitness, Goals, Running, Marathon, Quarantine

Running

Setting Running Goals for 2021

How long will races be canceled?

Photo by Mārtiņš Zemlickis on Unsplash

I cannot wait for 2020 to be over so I can run races again. I miss feeling the excitement of thousands at the starting line. I love being able to test my training efforts and the social aspect of races. With quarantine, it feels like I am missing out.

Truth is, we don't know when races will reopen again. Many think it will be sometime next year, but there’s no guarantee. I currently have seven canceled marathons and an ultra which are rolling into 2021. Who knows how I will run that many, even if they all still do happen. I need a Plan B. I don't want to pay $40 to just get shipped a medal and tee after running outside. I’m looking for a stimulating challenge, trying to compensate for this dreadful year!

Here are a few ideas I have to fill that gap. I hope they can also inspire you if you are in the same boat!

Photo by Mārtiņš Zemlickis on Unsplash

Crossing State Lines: Being a Chicagoan, I have always wanted to run to Wisconsin (40 miles). I have already run to Indiana (25 miles) before, but I have an itch for more states. While it’s not going to have the social aspect of a race, I do feel the challenge alluring since I am not even sure I can do it! Regardless of what state you live in, maybe crossing state lines can help fill the void. Iowa (160 miles) is also enticing, but since it involves multiple nights stays and traveling into much unknown, I am not sure I am ready for that yet. Whatever your skill level is, pack some light supplies and run to a place you’ve never run to before! Beautiful Landscapes: I’ve been on so many gorgeous courses in the races I have run, but it doesn't need to stop. I’m going to rent a cabin somewhere out in the country and spent my days running around! I’m a city boy, so running along the Great Lakes or around the Smokey Mountains of Tennesee seems like a perfect weekend getaway. A lot of the West Coast folks are probably used to running on some stunning trails, but the idea is to change up the scenery. If you live somewhere hot, visit somewhere cold, and vice versa. If you are used to running in the forest, maybe try a desert. The U.S. is blessed with a wide variety of terrains so hop in your car and drive towards it!

Photo by Mārtiņš Zemlickis on Unsplash

3. CRAW (Circumpolar Race Around the World): While I quickly got disenchanted with the virtual race scene, it’s because it’s usually only a one-time thing and lacks a social aspect. You may want to consider CRAW like I did, as you join a team of up to 10 others where you will run about 31,000 miles (48,500 km) together for the next 1–2 years. It will keep you busy and being on a team working towards a common goal will feel less isolating. Their Facebook group is a riot! CRAW is run by Laz, who is famous for the Barkley Marathons, one of the toughest ultras out there (definitely watch the documentary about it!). There are special silver and gold buckles if your team finishes early. If that’s too extreme, there are plenty of other virtual experiences popping up that involve more than just a one-day 5k race.

Even if 2021 follows the uncertain fate of 2020, this is my tentative plan. I’m excited about it! Keep challenging yourself regardless of what’s going on!