Short Term Goals

I'm looking back at my almost non-existent riding history for the month of July and I'm realizing that goals are important.  Not just the big goals like riding 2012 in 2012, but smaller, short-term goals like riding so many days in a week, or month.

I knew when I had bike problems at the beginning of the month that my total for the month was going to be low, but not quite as low as it is.  Between mechanical issues, the heat and humidity, a minor injury and various late nights, the mileage has not been there this month.  In fact, as of today, my mileage for the month of July is only 17.6 miles in 2 rides!

I could make excuses and dwell on the fact that I'm falling further and further behind my initial pace to reach my goal, but I know that is unproductive.  Instead I am looking ahead.  Since it is still very warm, I don't want to overstate my goal or over commit myself for the month of August, but I do want to make sure that I am making progress towards my big goal for the year.

With that in mind, I have come up with some mini goals for the month:

First I am planning on riding at least 17 of the 31 days in August.  That averages out to 4 per week for the next 4 weeks plus an extra day for the extra half week of the month.

Secondly, I am planning on riding at least one 20 mile ride and one 25 mile ride during the month.

Third,  My total miles for the month should be at least 200.

I think these are very doable goals for the next month and will help to propel me towards the 2012 in 2012 larger goal.

Looking ahead to September, there is a ride up the Las Vegas Strip on September 22 as part of Viva Bike Vegas which I am hoping to do.  The short ride option is only 17 miles, which I know I can do, but there are some longer options which I might attempt.  I'll wait until the beginning of September to see how well I'm doing, before I make that decision.

Anyone want to join me?

What are your goals for August?

Dan