Rest, Reflect, and Set Goals for 2012

The last two weeks of the year are the perfect time to rest, reflect, and start thinking about the next year. 

Rest

For me these last 2 weeks of the year are complete rest from working out.  I run with my Saturday morning running group in La Grange Park, walk the dog, and Pilates training but other than that, I catch up on books, movies, shopping, and other holiday stuff.

Reflect

This year was a rather slow year for me with triathlon racing.  I love triathlon and usually do 4 – 5 races a year.  In 2011 I only did 2 triathlons, the woman’s sprint in Naperville and a Half Ironman in Muncie, IN. 

Running was a different story as it was a pretty good year.  I finally ran the Boston Marathon and did several local 5K’s, a half marathon in Oak Brook, and the Rock and Roll marathon in Savannah, GA.  Although my marathon times were not my best, I did place in my age group at 2 5K’s and had my best ½ marathon finishing time in Oak Brook. 

Setting goals for 2012

And now starts the fun part; I am starting to think about goals for 2012.  For triathlon, I am already signed up for the Racine Half Ironman (70.3) as a friend and I are going to do it together.  It will be her first 70.3 race and it will be fun having a training partner, especially on those 4 – 5 hour bike rides.  I am also going to do the Naperville triathlon and will have a group training program for any women wanting to do their first triathlon or get faster at the sprint distance. 

I haven’t decided on any other triathlons yet and if you have a favorite race, let me know.  I am always looking for suggestions.

For running, I know I will do the La Grange Park Run for the Roses in the spring.  Last year Oasis, Back in Balance Chiropractic, and I put together a free training program for the race.  It was a fun event with weekly group runs, training advice, and race day fun.  I will also do the La Grange Rocks race as it is a night race close to home.  And of course, if I’m around for Thanksgiving, I will run the Pilgrim Pacer and the 3.14 Pie Race.

Longer distance running races will include the Oak Brook ½ marathon and at least one marathon in a state that I haven’t run marathon in yet (which leaves 36 states!)  I am debating between Montana, Texas, and Oregon.  I will also put my name in for the New York Marathon Lottery. 

I am curious to know what races you are planning in 2012.  Leave a comment below.