I need a running/exercise goal for 2017

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I've been a runner for c. 10 years, now 46 yo. I love it and don't know how I got through life without it

However, I do seem to have lost my mojo a bit of late and need some new motivation.

In 2013 I did 13 half marathons (i.e. 13/13/13). This year a took some swimming lessons and did a triathalon. I did think maybe i could develop that but have discovered I HATE swimming!

I've done a marathon in the past, glad I did but not something I want to repeat ATM. I reckon it took me the best part of a year to recover mentally and physically.

I don't fancy the obstacle/mud run things that are so popular, prefer low key local events.

So, any ideas?

What would be different for you? You've done half-M, so you've done distance. Have you ever targeted speed, trying to improve your 5km for instance? Those very muddy runs put me off too, but what about fell-running?

Have you tried trail running? Less emphasis on times, more about the scenery and the experience, I find it very relaxing some days! And it gives you the chance to run races in great places.

Thanks lljkk. I live about 250 miles from the nearest fell but I do do a lot of trail running in summer and the cross country league in winter. I do love that.

Maybe a real push to improve my times for shorter races would be good but I struggle to know what a realistic goal would be.

ATM my 5k is 23:40 and 10k 48.58

Do you know your VO2max?
(You could pay to find out if you don't already)
Then use this chart to find out your potential times.

Also what about some kind of relay racing?

Would an annual distance target suit you at all? I've just signed up for 1000km virtual medal thing in 2017 and there are 1000 miles and other options.

Hmm, it might but tbh I don't alway wear a watch (have actually set all my pbs when I left the watch off) and generally cba to log milage etc. Maybe that should change but I can't see me sticking with it

I hate logging miles, too, what a faff.

Parkrun tourism challeng? Get to 10/20/30 different events whatever is realistic for you in a year

Orienteering? People take the race part very seriously!!