S.M.A.R.T Goals

Now that you know a few types of running goals, the next step is setting running goals that fit you. To make them more effective, you can use the framework known as S.M.A.R.T Goals.

What are S.M.A.R.T Goals?

SMART stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-Based. This framework helps you set goals that are clearer, more realistic and easier to measure.

Specific

Goals work best when they’re clear and specific. The more specific your goal, the easier it is to plan how to reach it. A few questions that help you make a goal specific:

- What do you want to achieve?

- Why does this goal matter to you?

- When and where is the event you want to run?

Example of a specific goal:

In 2026, I want to qualify for the Boston Marathon in the 18-34 age group. To do that, I need to finish a marathon in 2 hours 55 minutes or faster.

Measurable

A goal needs a clear measure so you can judge your progress. For example, your finish time in a race, the kilometres you cover each week, or how your pace improves over time.

Examples of measures you can use:

- Finish a Half-Marathon in under 2 hours.

- Build weekly mileage from 30 km to 50 km in 3 months.

- Bring your running pace down from 6:00/km to 5:30/km in 6 months.

Achievable

Goals should be challenging but still realistic. Set them too high and you risk disappointment and losing motivation. Set them too low and you may lose the drive to improve.

Examples of unrealistic scenarios:

- A beginner who wants to win their first Half-Marathon.

- A runner with a packed schedule who wants to finish a Full Marathon without enough preparation.

Setting a goal that fits your ability and circumstances helps you stay motivated and avoid injury or burnout.

Relevant

Goals should match what really matters to you. Don’t just follow trends, or chase something because everyone else is.

A few questions to check whether a goal is relevant:

- Why does this goal matter to you?

- What will it do for your running and your life?

- Is this the right time to chase this goal?

For example, not every runner needs to finish a Full Marathon just because it’s seen as the mark of a “real” runner.

Time-Based

Every goal needs a deadline to give it direction. A clear timeframe helps you build an effective training plan.

Things to think about:

- When is your target race?

- How much time do you need to prepare?

- How will you split your training time by day, week and month?

How a coach helps you set goals

If you work with a coach, talking through the goal you want to reach is a really important step. A coach will help you:

- Analyse your potential and past performances.

- Check how ready you are, based on physiological tests and how you adapt to training.

- Build a training plan that fits.

- Pick preparation races as part of the plan toward your main goal.

With the right guidance, you can be more confident that the goal you’re chasing fits your ability and circumstances.

If you want to dig deeper into your running goals, feel free to get in touch and we’ll talk it through.