Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Reaching all Runners, Lesson 2: Goals

Goals are imperative in training- whether you are exercising for weight loss, sports or running. A goal will serve as accountability, a sense of encouragement and a measure of performance. Goals must be S.M.A.R.T, as I have mentioned before; they are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely.

Here are some things to think about when making your goals:

What are the athlete’s goals prior to exercise?
- if hydration only, water intake is sufficient
- if carbohydrate is needed, choose between a sports beverage (with 6% carbohydrates), carbohydrate gel and water, or food/water combo (listed here)

What are the athlete’s goals during exercise?
- If only fluid is needed, water may be sufficient
- If carbohydrate is also needed, choose between a sports beverage (with 6% carbohydrates), carbohydrate gel and water, or food/water combo (listed here)
-If sodium is also needed, choose a sodium-containing sports drink or sodium- containing food and water

What are the athlete’s goals after exercise?
- Replenish water, carbohydrate and sodium as needed with a combination of foods and beverages

Have you established your S.M.A.R.T goal?

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