Cringy title we know - but now that we have your attention let's talk. We know just how stressful resolutions can be so we thought we'd offer to shed some light on a sustainable way to set and achieve your running dreams in 2025.
At Verve our hope is that you would first and foremost fall in love with the process of running, the process that is the early morning and late nights, the process is, planning your outfit and laying your shoes by your bed in an attempt to reduce any friction you may face when your alarm inevitably goes off in the morning.
We understand it can be hard, it's not all PB's and Australian marathon records... well I mean, for some of us it is and for some of us, it could be -- but if we're honest the only way to achieving our own mountaintop success... is through the valley of consistency.
So let's make that part as enjoyable as possible, remember - it's a marathon, not a sprint.
Running is more than a routine it's a rhythm, woven into our days, weeks, months, and years.
We hope that as you plan, you will do so with great emphasis on enjoying and trusting the process - believe us, the results will come.
Here are a few words from our staff about goal setting as you stand at the start of the year and perhaps even, stand on the start line - for the very first time.
Firstly, let's change our mindset from 'all or nothing' to 'always something' as we've already mentioned -- consistency is key. Cast a vote every day for the goal you have in mind, small steps add up.
Secondly, let's try breaking your goals into the smallest little micro goals - so you can easily identify the process. Dream big and work your way back.
For example, let's say you want to place in the top {insert number} at the Nike Melbourne 10K - this would be considered an outcome goal. It has many variables outside of your control and can feel unattainable.
So let's break it down.
Ask yourself, what time would I need to run to place in the top {insert number}?
*googles Nike Melbourne 10K results from 2024
ahh, I would need to run XX : XX - this is a performance goal.
Overwhelming right?
Now let's break it down even further into process goals (now we're getting to the bottom of it)
If I plan to run just XX : XX min/km for 10K then I think I should commit to
- X many days of running per week (write it in your calender)
- X many days of gym per week (write it in your calender)
- Ideally, I'll get 8 hours of sleep a night (set an alarm for 1 hour before bed)
- I'd like some guidance with my nutrition and how to fuel for workouts so I should seek some help there (book an appointment with the nutritionist)
- I need to find some run clubs or training partners I don't want to do all this alone (come along to our weekly shop runs)
Do you see? This is the process. This is the nitty gritty, seemingly mundane processes that lead to change and betterment over time.
At the end of the day ask yourself - did you do those things?
And finally, find your 'why' - ask yourself "why do I want to do this? why is this important to me?" Find your why and you'll find that even the smallest of decisions will be easier to make—especially the decision to get up and go for that run.
Let's run because it makes you feel -- brave, joyful, grateful and strong, rather than as a punishment for something you don't like. Let running stem from a place of unlocking your potential and embracing your ability to move your mind and your body.
