Goal Setting 5k, 10k, 21k

TauCeti
TauCeti Posts: 5
edited January 17 in Fitness and Exercise
I am new to this web site but I need the help since I have to lose about 70 lbs. I should be 175 and I am currently 245.

I used to run 8 years ago at age 43 but the years have been stressful and I've put on the pounds. I am now 100% into lose weight mode and doing it safely. For motivation, I set goals of competing in a local 5 kilometer (3 mile) race in August and a 10 k (6 mile) race in early Sept and a 1/2 marathon in late September.

I started this week and I'm currently on the treadmill keeping the heart rate up for 30 minutes at 80 to 80% of max heart rate.

I was wondering if anyone else has had experience in setting race goals or other similar physical endurance goals as a motivator to lose the weight. Look forward to hearing of your experiences.

Replies

  • KyleB65
    KyleB65 Posts: 1,196 Member
    My preference is performance goals!

    Initially I was all about hitting numbers on the scale. Until the flabby skin!!

    Then I started weight training and I signed up for a Spartan race. Now, I LOVE weights and I did my first 21k 3 weeks ago in the OMG! it's cold out Canadian winter!

    For me, running is particularly fun as it provides me with an opportunity to compete against myself. First I strive for a new and longer distance. Then I work to improve the time. Once I get a little too confident, I set a new distance goal.

    I have now started training to run a full marathon in 2014. Scares the crap out of me!! But, I can hardly wait! :-)

    In addition, I keep records of my weight lifting so I can work at lifting heavier.

    Together, these activities have helped me re-define my body!
  • scottb81
    scottb81 Posts: 2,538 Member
    I would recommend not setting any goals for the 5K other than to do your best. Spend the time between now and then training for it and then go out and run a max effort race. Once you get that 5K time you will have a good measure of your current fitness and ability level and can set some realistic goals for the 10K and HM using the calculator here - http://www.mcmillanrunning.com/
  • ladynica
    ladynica Posts: 329 Member
    I just signed up for a 5k that is going on in may. They are doing mini weekly team walks to prepare for the 5k for 6 weeks prior, but I'm also doing leslie sansone 3 mile walks videos every other day to condition myself. This is my first 5k and I did sign up for it as a goal, however this is my first time doing something like this for a goal. I'm 241 by the way.

    Here's the video of leslie's that I've been doing. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xRScb2l4Z4g
  • whatjesseats
    whatjesseats Posts: 228 Member
    I have found training for races to be incredibly motivating, and more rewarding, than by setting weight goals alone. Losing 5 lbs is cool, but doesn't compare to running 5 miles for the first time!

    My advice would be to find a training plan to get you running a 5k -- I think you can accomplish this goal much sooner than August. Once you have your 5k plan in place, then find a 10k plan, and once you have that set, a half-mary plan. This way you can gradually increase your mileage and reduce your risks of injury.
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