How to Set Epic Running Goals for 2025

How to Set Epic Running Goals for 2025

Ready to crush 2025 with your running goals? Great! But before you get swept up in the excitement of signing up for every race (hello, post-New Year’s enthusiasm), take a deep breath. Setting clear goals is the secret ingredient to making this your best running year yet. It keeps you motivated when those long training days start to feel like a Netflix marathon (without the snacks). So, here’s how to set your running goals with a bit of humour and a lot of heart.

1. Why Do You Run? (Hint: It’s Not Just About the Snacks)

Before you start plotting your race calendar, pause and reflect on what excites you about running. Is it the thrill of chasing a personal best (PB)?, to collect all the cool medals,  maybe you’re curious about that marathon everyone talks about, or perhaps you just love the vibe of race day—no pressure, just high-fives and community spirit.

Your running goals are as unique as a kangaroo joining your morning jog, unexpected, fun, and truly your own. And that’s totally fine! Here are some goal categories to get your brain ticking:

• Chasing a Personal Best (PB): If you’re out to crush your PB, focus on a few well-chosen races spaced out just right to allow for proper training and recovery.
• Exploring New Distances: Is this the year you take the leap into a marathon or ultra? Or maybe you’re testing your legs with a 5K for the first time. New distances are both exhilarating and terrifying (hello, blisters!). So make sure you build your training to gradually increase the mileage.
• Joining the Running Community: Not every run needs to be a time trial. Sometimes it’s all about the vibe, the laughs, and the connection. If you’re more about the social side than setting records, sprinkle in some fun community races or charity events to keep things light.

2. Pick Your Focus Events (The “Big Deals”)

Now that you know why you run, it’s time to get tactical. Pick a couple of “focus events” to centre your year around. These are the races where you’ll bring your A-game, your PB-chasing, sweat-drenched, “don’t talk to me until I finish” events. Choose wisely, and give yourself enough time for training, recovery, and maybe some snacks.

You can check out the Running Calendar

www.cardiokingz.com.au/pages/events or www.runningcalendar.com.au

• Pick High-Impact Races: Choose races that get your heart racing, whether it’s a famous event you’ve always dreamed of or a quirky one with a route so scenic you’ll almost forget you’re running (almost).
• Timing & Location: Think logistics. Are you travelling for your races? If so, consider the impact on your training.

3. Competitive vs. Community: It’s Like a Workout Playlist, But for Races

Variety is the spice of life — and your race calendar! Mix up competitive races with community events for the perfect blend of speed and fun. Not every race has to be a high-stakes battle for a PB. Sometimes, you just need to show up, enjoy the run, and cheer on some awesome people.

• Competitive Races: These are your PB dreams come true. Focus on training for one or two events where you’re aiming for that elusive personal best or just testing your limits. Make sure to plan your recovery so you don’t crash and burn.
• Community Races: The real unsung heroes. These are low-pressure, high-fun events where you can soak in the atmosphere, chat with fellow runners, and maybe even jog with a giant inflatable banana. They’re also budget-friendly, so you can save your money for that next big race.

Balancing both types of races will ensure your 2025 is filled with both personal victories and unforgettable moments.

4. Spacing Out Your Races (So You Don’t End Up Running on Empty)

It’s tempting to sign up for every race under the sun, but let’s be real — you don’t want to burn out or worse get injured. Finding the right spacing between races is like planning the perfect dessert — too many in a row, and you’ll ruin your appetite.

• Spacing Out Events: Schedule recovery between races. Running a marathon might require a week or two of recovery, but a 5K? A couple of days should do it. Make sure you’ve got time to train properly for each event, too.
• Avoid Overload: Life’s busy enough without overloading your calendar. Keep your race schedule manageable so you can focus on your performance and not feel like you’re constantly chasing the next race.

5. Budgeting: Race Entry Fees, Travel, and That One Weird Snack You’ll Definitely Buy Post-Race

Let’s talk money —  because races aren’t cheap. And when you factor in travel expenses (hello, post run coffees and pastries) and entry fees, it adds up quickly. Plan ahead so your running goals don’t leave you crying into your protein shake.

• Race Entry Fees: Choose races that give you the most bang for your buck. Want to run the big-name marathons? Sign up early for early-bird discounts. Your wallet will thank you.
• Travel Expenses: If you’re planning to race somewhere far, consider the total cost of transportation, accommodation, and, of course, race-day snacks. Keep it balanced with a few local events so your finances stay as healthy as your legs.

6. The Off-Season: Take a Break Before You Break Down

Don’t ignore the off-season. Even the best runners know that taking time off is key to avoiding injury and burnout. Think of it like hitting the reset button — your body needs a break from the relentless grind of race prep.

• Set a 6-12 Week Off-Season: Step away from the race madness for a bit. Use this time to rest, recover, and work on building a strong foundation for the upcoming season. Just don’t spend it binge-watching every Netflix series —you’ve got goals to work on!
• Focus on Strength Training: Use the off-season to hit the gym or focus on mobility exercises. This isn’t just about lounging on the couch (unless it’s for mental recovery with a side of snacks). Strength training helps prevent injuries and sets you up for success when race season starts again.

7. Recharge and Reset: Come Back Stronger (and More Excited)

Taking a break isn’t just about recovering physically — it’s also about giving your mind a chance to reset. After all, what’s a great race season without the mental energy to tackle it? Come back from your off-season feeling fresh and ready to tackle the next challenge.

And there you have it — your guide to setting your 2025 running goals. Whether you’re chasing PBs, exploring new distances, or just enjoying the journey, make sure to have fun along the way.  Running is about more than just crossing the finish line — it’s about connecting with the community, soaking in the race day vibes, and collecting those hard-earned medals. So go ahead, lace up, and let’s make 2025 your best year yet, with every step of the journey!

 

Have Fun and Happy Running!!!!

Joel, Natalie, Xander and Xara