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What Next? |  |
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See the Index for more topics, information, hints and tips.
So you’ve completed your goal race, maybe set a PR. Now what do you do? First of all while it is still fresh in your mind, write down in your Running Log what things went right, what went wrong and how you could improve. Maybe you tried something that really made it click; do more of it in the future!
Sometimes you feel almost depressed after a race even if you've done well. You’ve spent many, many hours in the past weeks and months preparing for the race and now that it is over, there is something missing in your life. You probably miss your running friends and their comradery.
So, do you hang up your shoes or do you continue training? Hopefully running has become a hobby that you are passionate about.
Decide if you want to run longer distances or the same distance, or maybe try some shorter races. This could include 5K, 10K, half and full marathons. Look what’s available in your area.
Do you want to continue at the same pace or try going faster?
Maybe you want to try a biathlon or triathlon, an ultra-marathon race, an adventure race, mud race, Spartan race, Ragnar Trail Relay, or obstacle course. There are usually a number of fun races in an area. Look for races in unique locations or theme races. Theme race are a lot of fun. People get dressed up in costumes, sometimes very elaborate ones. Some of these races include: St. Patrick’s Day, Halloween, Christmas, Independence Day, New Year’s, and Thanksgiving.
There are always races in different places. Think of vacation, places you visit, or go to for business. Maybe you’d enjoy doing a destination race like the Chicago, Boston, or Pikes Peak marathons. Or maybe a race at Disney would fit your vacation plans.
Check out your local running clubs. They may have some very affordable races or social runs and other activities.
For training, there are many running clubs around. Talk with fellow runners or check at local sport stores for information, or Google them. Clubs frequently have training programs and many stores that cater to runners also provide training opportunities.
You've put a lot of time, work, and effort to get where you are. Don't let it go to waste! Continue running. Check out Goals and Benefits of Running.
