Goal setting for 2027: Meaning is more important than SMART

If you’re aiming to be at your best for 2027, now is a good time to set goals.

Goal setting is a sports psychology fundamental. Of the mental coaching tools, it’s probably the most valuable to cyclists and is usually framed around the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound) acronym. For sure, the riders I coach who have got the most out of their cycling are those who have clear targets but critically these have been underpinned by fundamental personal values to give them real meaning.  

SMART can be overdone. The mark of a successful goal is not whether it is ultimately achieved (if goals are ‘smashed’ then they’re too easy) but whether it has sufficient motivational significance to ensure training is done consistently with intent and purpose. It’s worth spending some time understanding what value cycling represents to illuminate the core instincts and fundamental beliefs that drive you as an athlete.      

A goal of hitting 4w/kg at FTP by 4th Feb 2027 is a SMART but in isolation it lacks meaning. It is a process target, useful but unlikely to be something deeply psychologically connected to the time and effort put into training. We choose to invest time in training, often sacrificing other activities, so understanding why we make this choice and how it reflects our core values is worthwhile.

Consequently, you may find your targets do not have the SMART credentials of a power to weight metric, but they can be made SMART enough to be far more valuable. Do not feel obliged to pick goals that fit conveniently in the box. The right goal gives meaning to hard work. This makes training more effective, more consistent and ultimately makes a faster, fitter and happier rider.

Value backed goal setting indicates hope for the future. Set goals with self-belief in mind and it demonstrates confidence and optimism about the ability to progress.

If I can help with your training, get in touch here. Now is a great time to start work for 2027. 

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​Rich Smith, BSc, MSc Psychology, GMBPsS, specialises in competition, motivation and affective states. He is a British Cycling qualified Level 3 Road and TT coach supporting riders nationally and internationally. He established RideFast Coaching in 2015 to deliver physiologically effective and psychologically sustainable training to enthusiastic amateur riders.