Start Where You Are

How fit are you right now? Take these tests to identify the goals that suit you and make 2018 your best ever running year

to book a flight without first identifying your departure airport. Yet many runners make their new year’s resolutions without first taking an honest look at their fitness levels or health habits. ‘ We live in a “Keep up with the Joneses” culture, where everybody wants to get noticed and be the best,’ says psychologist and sports psychology consultant Dr Christine Selby. When we see other people’s workout data, healthy meals and race triumphs posted on Instagram, we may think we should be running just as far, eating just as well and finishing just as fast. Runners may crowd-source their goals instead of relying on motivation from within, which can lead to training struggles, dashed hopes and injury.

‘Not being honest about where you are now sets you up for the Three Toos: too much, too fast, too soon,’ says coach Jason Fitzgerald. That’s why you must take stock of the runner you are now – not the one you were before you had kids or started a new job or gained a few pounds – so you can pinpoint an achievable goal for Current You.

It also makes running more fun, says exercise physiologist and coach Greg Mcmillan. ‘By being honest, you give yourself the chance to enjoy your running more,’ he says. Instead of failing at unachievable goals, you will be conquering appropriate challenges.