Yesterday, we talked about my typical race morning, but today I want to at how I get mentally prepared for race day. You may have guessed I am a bit of a hot mess around events or “big moments” so the week (or two) leading up to race day can set me right on edge. It’s funny because I really do love running and racing… I just have to get to the start line. Here are the things that create mental obstacles for me on race day.
Choosing The Right Fit
One of the things I always need to work out is my outfit. Right now, I’ve lost a little weight/changed body composition, so I have a few pair of shorts that are too big and uncomfortable for racing. There are also sports bras that are more comfortable for different distances, and some shirts that hold up better in warmer weather than others. I felt cute in the below outfit, but I had to hold those shorts up and figure out how to retie the string in the waistband while on the move. Not fun.
Overthinking My Goals
I don’t talk a lot about specific goals, only because I worry that if I speak them into the universe, something will happen to jinx them. Is this logical? Nope, but it’s part of me getting mentally prepared for race day. Sometimes the goal has to be “do your best and have fun.” At least with running, my goals are all very personal, so it doesn’t technically matter if I hit them or not. Sometimes, I just need to keep that pressure off so I can focus on not driving myself crazy during the event and enjoy the finish line.
Working Through Mile 1 Anxiety
The first mile of races has become a bit of a nemesis for me. No matter how chill I think I am, the minute the gun goes off and we start moving, my shoulders tighten, my chest contracts, and I feel like I’ll never breathe again. Lately, I’ve learned to just push through it, where before, it really got in my head and shook me off track. When I’m getting mentally prepared for race day, I remind myself that this happens every time, there is nothing wrong with me, and it will pass, if I let it. Mind games are fun, right?
Also Working Through Finish Line Anxiety
The closer I get to the finish line, the more my brain plays tricks on me. I prefer races where the finish is around a corner, or tucked away, rather than having that guidepost in constant sight, but this is hard to ensure. While I’m getting mentally prepared for race day, I remind myself that the last half mile is ok. That I can do this hard thing. I won’t hyperventilate or vomit (both have happened), and I’m going to be so happy to be done. Sometimes, I have to give myself permission to succeed. This technique has been working well, and I’m seeing the results in my latest races.
What Does This Mean For The Spud Run 10K?
On Saturday morning, I’ll take on my first 10K in a hot minute. I’m nervous because I am on a bit of a deadline with some other activities that day, and also, I think I’ll feel alone as I don’t know anyone at the race. It will be warm and there isn’t much shade on the course. I’m prepared to feel all the things, and I’m also prepared to get through it. After all, I’m getting a sack of potatoes, a head of cabbage, and a potato shaped medal.
Best Strategy: Remembering To Enjoy The Moment(s)
Y’all, I love running. I do. And I love race days, despite how hard I find them sometimes. At the end of the day, I just need to remember that I GET to do this, in spite of the mental hurdles. I’m going to get out there, have fun, and do the best I can. That’s always the goal!
How to you mentally prepare for your race days?
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Ah, the Spud Run! All the best with that race, Jenn! You will crush it!
I can see how sharing time goals can increase anxiety – it does add pressure. However, I find that the running community is extremely supportive and everyone understands that race goals don’t always happen.
I prefer hidden finish lines, too!
I get anxious before races too. I think sometimes I don’t race as well than my training shows because I hold back in fear of going out too hard. It’s funny because I ran some virtual races really well in 2020, and I think it was because I was so much less anxious. You will do great in the Spud run!
I can definitely get caught up in over thinking my own plan for the day!
It’s awful
Logistics are the things that get me on race day. Getting to the event on time, parking, warming up, etc. Once that’s done I can relax and enjoy the race. Though I tend to get a little anxious at the finish line too. I just happen to have a finish line photo with a hand over my mouth to keep from vomiting for the picture. 🙂
I stress about it so much.