Runners are no strangers to fear. Sometimes it’s excitement mixed with nerves, and other times it’s the kind of creeping dread that trails you like a haunting shadow. Since spooky season is here, let’s talk about the running fears that haunt us, and, more importantly, how we can chase them away!
Fear #1: What If I’m Too Slow?
This one shows up often, especially on race day or when you’re joining up with a running group for the first time. Imposter syndrome is real. Please the remember the simple fact that your pace is the least interesting thing about you as a runner. Running is about movement, joy, and the personal victories no clock can measure (like outrunning zombies). If you’re out there lacing up, you’re winning. And don’t forget that most races list a required pace so you can double check yourself and train accordingly.
Fear #2: What If I Can’t Finish?
DNFs may feel like the monsters lurking under the bed, but not completing a race shouldn’t be scary or induce shame. Every runner has limits, and learning them is part of the journey. After all, no race is worth your health or well being. Training smart, listening to your body, and remembering that one finish line doesn’t define your whole story can help quiet this fear.
Fear #3: What If I Get Injured?
Nothing is more chilling than the thought of an injury, or the memory of an old injury resurfacing. Rest, recovery, and strength work can make your body more resilient, but the mental scars take time too. Be patient with yourself and just keep looking ahead. Progress isn’t always linear.
Fear #4: What If I’ve Got To GO?
This might sound funny, but it’s one of the most common “ugly” running fears out there. Coffee, nerves, and miles don’t always play nice with our stomachs. Testing your fuel before race day, keeping an eye on hydration, and scoping out bathroom stops ahead of time can help tame this particular nightmare. I’ve also been known to keep Immodium on hand for race days, just in case.
Fear #5: Are People Judging Me?
Whether it’s feeling self-conscious about pace, appearance, or form, many runners feel like everyone’s watching. The truth? Most people are focused on themselves. And the ones who ARE watching? They’re probably inspired that you showed up. If anyone DOES have the audacity to judge, that reflects more on them than on you. Their opinion on you is none of your business: get out there, shine bright, and have a great run!
Fear #6: What If Something’s Behind Me?
No, it’s not! True story: I once ran a fall trail relay in the woods where one team thought it would be hilarious to dress up like famous horror movie villains and play their respective theme songs on speakers in the middle of the night. They were incredibly disrespectful and insisted on running up on other participants to get a reaction. I absolutely told off a Michael Myers and I was thrilled not to see him again on the course, but it scared me half to death.
Running fears are normal. They remind us that we care about the miles, the finish lines, and the effort we put in. This Halloween season, instead of letting those fears haunt you, try flipping it around and consider it proof that you’re chasing something that matters.
What’s your spookiest running fear?
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Fear #4…yikes! Over the years, I’ve shared a lot of stories related to that one. My advice for this and all the other fears is to have a sense of humor! We aren’t professional athletes, we get to do this, we choose to do this, and even though we want to do our best, it’s still best to be able to laugh at ourselves when things don’t go our way.
Right? That’s all you can do!