Setting a new goal......

[glitterNfunk]

I'm hitting my step goal of 17,400 each day.  In fact, aside from a missing hourly dot now and again, I'm hitting all my set fitbit goals.  I increase these goals just a bit every two weeks but now I have an additional goal in mind.....

My long term goal is to successfully complete a sprint triathlon.  (1/2 mile swim, 12 mile bike, and a 5k). 

This is long term as I've never so much as done a 5k.  So, my first step is to complete a 5k in an hour or less.  (In my area, roads are only closed for an hour to allow these races) That means an average pace of 3.1 miles per hour minimum.  Currently I'm typically at 2 miles an hour.  I need to increase my speed by 50%.  So, for the remainder of May I will use my fitbit to track my walk minutes, steps, and miles.  I will then use a spreadsheet to track my steps per minute and miles per hour. 

Using that data, I will determine how much of an increase to my speed will be needed each month to reach my 5k goal by my birthday in March.  This percentage will be added to my monthly goals.

This is gonna be fun.......

: )

[Esya]

Finding new goals can be so much fun. I am happy you found something to work towards.

[Salmonberry · Accepted solution]

I'm not sure about the math involved but I would recommend using a treadmill for pacing, if you have access to that. And also, start stepping to the beat of the music you are listening to. If the music is slow, take longer steps. If it is faster, take short quick ones. You can do that on the treadmill without even changing the mph.

[emili]

That is an awesome goal. I am not sure about the math either, but I would try to go for a faster pace for specific lengths at a time until you fit the three in. Do a half mile at a faster pace and then drop back down to finish. Increase that to 3/4 and so on and so forth until you are doing the three without feeling like death. I agree the treadmill is a good place to figure out your pace. However, it is very different to run on a treadmill and on pavement. Train using both modes for best results...

[glitterNfunk]

@Salmonberryyou know, I used to always have my ipod and earbuds with me on walks and at some point I got away from that.  I don't currently have access to a treadmill but I'm going to dust off the 'ol ipod and sort through some songs.  I can definitely use music to keep my pace.  Thank you for the reminder!