A comparison of the effects of two goal-setting variations on running performance

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of assigned versus self-set long-term goals on estimated maximal aerobic capacity. Seventy-seven male and female subjects were split into two experimental groups. Subjects were initially tested for maximal aerobic capacity by way of a 1.5 mile run test. These results were used to assign a long-term goal for the assigned group and to provide a basis for the self-set group to set a personal long-term goal. After a 14-week training period the subjects were once again tested for maximal aerobic capacity. Results from the data analysis revealed no significant difference between experimental groups and the control group. It was concluded that goal setting did not result in a significant improvement in maximal aerobic capacity. Many factors could have contributed to these results, such as uncontrolled self-set goals, inaccurate report of out-of-class training, or the lack of randomization with respect to the selection and assignment of subjects. Also, differing weather conditions between the initial test and the final test may have masked the true improvement in maximal aerobic capacity.