How to Set a Running Goal for PILE on the MILES Challenge

How to set a goal for the Pile on the Miles 21 Day Challenge.

Pile on the Miles was originally a running challenge where we tried to run MORE miles in November. But over the years it’s grown and changed (just like us). Now the challenge is about setting a goal that is important to YOU and staying accountable to it.

You set your own goal.
You show up and check in every day.
You see results.

It’s simple but it’s not easy.

Setting your goal for this challenge is important. The goal should be based on the SMART goal formula of being specific, measurable, attainable, relevant (or realistic) and time sensitive. (The time limit is already set – 21 days.)

If you want to improve on something it’s important to measure it. This way you can tell how much progress you’re making and give yourself credit for every step!

How to Set Your Running Goal:

What are your 3 big or long term running goals right now? (Where do you want to be in 3 months? What is your 6 month goal? 1 year goal? These don’t have to be your biggest most important running goals – just the main ones you’re working on.)
What are some things you can do right now to move in the direction of those long term goals?
What is your goal for the next 21 days during the challenge?

Examples of specific, measurable, relevant goals:

I will run 3 miles a day 4 days a week.
I will run 20 miles a week.
I will run 3 miles Mon, 4 miles Wed, 5 miles Fri.
I will do 3 easy runs and 1 intentional workout run.
I will run 3 days a week and do 2 days of strength training.
I will do 30 minutes of cardio 5 days a week.
I will take a 30 minute walk every day.
I will swim for 20 minutes 3 days a week.
I will stick with my training plan of 5 runs a week (the specific runs should be set).

You can set a goal for the challenge and use the mini-goals at the beginning of the week to build on that progress.

Example of a POTM Goal and 3 weeks of Mini-Goals:

Pile on the Miles Challenge Goal: I will run 12 miles a week.

Week 1 Mini-Goal: I will run 3 miles M / 4 miles W / 5 miles F

Week 2 Mini-Goal: I will run 4 miles M / 4 miles W / 5 miles F

Week 3 Mini-Goal: I will run 4 miles M / 4 miles W / 6 miles F

Example of a POTM Goal and 3 weeks of Mini-Goals:

Pile on the Miles Challenge Goal: I will run 4 days a week.

Week 1 Mini-Goal: I will run 3 easy runs and 1 speed workout.

Week 2 Mini-Goal: I will run 3 easy runs and 1 day of hills.

Week 3 Mini-Goal: I will run 3 easy runs and 1 tempo run.

All Pile on the Miles participants will get the Goal Setting worksheet via email today – so make sure you’ve joined here Pile on the Miles Challenge sign up.

If you haven’t received it – join the Team Run Eat Repeat Facebook group (I’ll save it in a post) or email me [email protected]

Now use the Pile on the Miles Goal Setting Worksheet to set your goal for the challenge.
Let me know if you have any questions or want help figuring out your goal.

Join the Team Run Eat Repeat Facebook page to connect with other runners like you and chat about goals.

And make sure to follow @RunEatRepeat on instagram for daily check-ins and conversation in the comments.

If you haven’t signed up for the challenge yet – don’t miss it and join now!

–> Click here to join the PILE on the MILES challenge and get the Calendar and Planner pdf printable sent to your email.