Mindset

As with many sports, the mental aspects of running are just as important as the physical components. 

 Setting realistic, achievable expectations and goals for your training and performance is the first step.  Deciding what you can reasonably achieve in a session, a week, a season, and/or a career can help you successfully navigate the sometimes-circuitous path to attaining your long-term performance goals. 

The SMART goal framework is often helpful.  Most people are familiar with this tool, but if you are not, here is a quick refresher:

·      Specific

  • What will you accomplish, and how will you do it?

·      Measurable

  • How will you track your progress?

·      Achievable

  • Is your goal doable?

·      Relevant

  • How will achieving your goal help you?

·      Time Bound

  • What is your deadline?

Plan your short-term and longer-term goals with the help of this framework to keep yourself on track in a realistic way.  If you’re having trouble answering these questions about your training, consult a coach or a trusted running mentor. 

 Mental hacks like mantras and prompts are other tricks you can use to improve your running performance.  Here are a few I like:

·      Try repeating “Strong, Fast, Relaxed” in your head during challenging workouts and races

·      Count your exhales

·      Work on your running form by considering the following prompts:

  • Run Tall

  • Step Quick

  • Shoulders Relaxed

  • Smile!

 Your mindset around injuries also matters! It is common to feel anger, disappointment and frustration when a running-related injury comes up.  But truly, the overuse injuries that most commonly develop from running should be viewed as valuable information, not as an annoyance or a reflection of your failure as a runner. 

 When an injury is first starting, think about how each run makes your injury feel.  Use this decision tree to help you decide what to do, based on how you feel:

Ask yourself, what is this injury telling me about my running form or my training? How can I change and improve?

 Viewing the injuries that inevitably come up if you run regularly as opportunities, instead of as setbacks, may be the most powerful mental tool of all. 

Rebecca BreslowComment