Training and Racing Mantras

Mental training has made such a HUGE difference in my racing ability.

I am working with Dr. Asp to create a “training CD” to help me through my training leading up to Chicago (my 2016 qualifying attempt).  He has been so instrumental in my running performance so far (and ability to embrace pain and push harder than I thought possible!), so I am SO excited to be able to use this.  All too often I psych myself out over my hard workouts.  They will hurt!  They are so long!  My legs feel heavy already, my times will be slow?

I’m sure you’ve had these thoughts as well :).

So true!!

He’ll be finalizing my CD on Monday, so thought I’d post here to capture great training and racing mantras. I’d love to add others to my current repertoire. Here are a few of my current  favorites:

“You are f’ing badass – this workout is badass!” (explitives work so well, thank you, Angela!!)

“This is your race/workout”  I think about how I can control the pace, that I am running relaxed at the moment so I can pick it  up later – that I am in control of when I pick it up.

“2016 Olympic Trials” – this visual and phrase is SO powerful for me.  I want it more than anything!  I know I will have to hurt more than ANYTHING to be able to get there, so it encourages me to accept that much more  pain 🙂  I visualize  the 2012start/finish line banner as well.

I also remind myself of my dream.  The reason I am not working full-time anymore. What an opportunity! Let’s chase after it! Let’s see what your potential is!!

Form: Running light and tall, on top of my feet.  I also  picture a men’s 10k race where they have such awesome knee drive and leg extension.  Their hip rotation is so impressive.  I try to mimic this.

I encourage everyone reading this to comment.  What are your training or racing mantras you use???  If you’ve never commented here, now is the perfect opportunity!

Dr. Asp was recently published in Marathon and Beyond with a sample race script.  If you’ve been wondering if working with a sports psychologist could help you,  perhaps picking up a copy of this month’s publication  might help.  He gives his typical first script in the article.  Obviously, it’s more effective when you add your personal experiences and goals into the CD,  but this is a great introduction.