I’ve just finished a race, what next?

By Pete Cooper, Co-Founder of Coopah

When it comes to running, one of the biggest demotivators I hear is, ‘are you going to attempt a marathon now then’.

Too often these days, people talk about what’s next instead of living in the moment.  Maybe you have just completed the couch to 5k challenge and your message with your family and friends look a bit like this:

09:28 AM: Just completed c25k, so pleased!!!

09:32 PM: (Friend) Well done, marathon next?

09:45 PM: Haha, maybe….

Why is it that with running everything is related to a marathon?  Why can’t runners just spend some time to be happy with what they have achieved?  We are all for planning the next race, yes, but we need to remove this thought process of, ‘I have to run a marathon to be seen as a runner.’ If you run, you are a runner!

With that, it is important to keep running after any event or challenge you have done. Below, we give you a few key points on what to think about when thinking about your next race. 

Tip one - Don’t decide straight away

You don’t need to decide what your next race is straight away but you should continue to run and enjoy running.

You’ll have been in a regular running pattern, most likely three to six days a week in order to hit your goal.  You were also probably following a strict training plan – now is the time give yourself a week or two off running to a programme and just enjoy running.

Tip two - Going faster?

Did you get a buzz on race day when you crossed the line?

Did you look at your watch and think, I can go faster?

If you did, this probably means you are competitive and your reason for getting out of bed and running is to get faster. With that, start to think about your favourite distance and make that your priority. 

Tip three - I want to run further?

Did you cross the finish line and think, I can do that distance again?

If so, you are probably a runner who likes to run far. This means your next race could be a good opportunity to set yourself a further challenge. It could be trying to go from 5 miles to 10k or from a half marathon to a marathon. Longer distances come with greater challenges, so try not to worry about pace too much to start with – instead focus on finishing the run.   

Tip four - Find a digital running club

A great way to stay motivated is by having a group of runners around you. A group which runs at your pace, has similar goals and can encourage and support you. 

Coopah helps by placing you into running groups with people who have a similar distance or time in mind to ensure you stay motivated by a team of like-minded runners. This leads to stronger relationships and more enjoyable runs.

To find the next run for you, head to the Run For All events page here > https://www.runforall.com/events/