For coaches and educators.
Overview
Use goal setting to help participants choose a target, make a plan, and recognize their progress. Start with manageable goals and build on each success.
Why goal setting matters
A season goal can feel like a big number. Breaking it into smaller goals gives participants something they can work toward during each session. Every participant can contribute to a shared club goal while working toward a personal goal.
Try these goal-setting practices
Start with a short-term goal. Choose a goal that fits the participant’s starting point. For example, a participant might aim to complete half a mile during a session.
Make a plan together. Talk about how small efforts add up over several sessions. Help participants connect their laps to miles and their miles to the larger goal.
Show how everyone contributes. Remind the group that every lap adds to the club’s progress. Recognize participation and effort alongside distance.
Make progress visible. Share the club’s progress on a bulletin board or during a brief group check-in.
Celebrate, then choose the next goal. Acknowledge a completed goal before increasing the challenge. Give participants a chance to reflect on what helped them succeed.
What this can sound like
“Every lap you complete helps our club move toward its goal.”
“You reached the goal you set for today. What would you like to work toward next?”
Next steps
Set a Club Mileage Goal for your season, then choose smaller goals to work toward along the way.