Marathon Mindset Part 1

Welcome to part 1 of the Marathon Mindset series, where I’ll guide you through managing your mindset the week of your marathon. This post is all about your mindset in the few days leading up to the race. Bigger races like the NYC Marathon are exciting and full of energy, but they can also rattle your typical race-week plan.

Acknowledge your nerves

It’s okay to feel nervous! There’s nothing wrong with being nervous before a race. Even elite and professional athletes talk about experiencing nerves before racing.

If you’re already feeling nervous a few days or weeks before your race, your nerves will likely build. You’re not going to become less anxious by ignoring your nerves and hoping they go away. On the contrary, admitting you feel nervous can release some nerves.

Take care of the things you’re worried about

The logistics of big races can be extra stressful on top of all the regular race stress you’re experiencing. Take time to confirm your hotel, transportation, and any other logistics that might be causing you stress.

Ask yourself what you’re most worried about, and then plan to do something about those things.

Manage your energy

Big races have a lot going on. The expos are more prominent, the city comes more alive, and there are more runners in town. As a result, there are more opportunities for distractions and things that will use up your energy.

Think about the energy you’ll need to race and how you can protect that energy throughout the week. If going to the expo is draining, take extra time to do something relaxing before or after, for example.

Mind your mindset

Many athletes think their race mindset starts the morning of the race or maybe the day before. However, your mindset throughout the week leading up to your race will impact your mindset both before and during.

If you catch yourself thinking things like “this is going to be so hard” or “I don’t know if I can get a PR,” replace those thoughts with ones that will be more helpful. It will be easier to change your mindset now than on race day.

Do the little things right

The little things often lead to the big things.

Go to bed early. Eat nourishing food. Stick to your taper plan. Don’t try anything new. Charge your watch. Make sure you know where your race kit is. Buy extra nutrition.

Take care of the things that can ultimately ruin your race if you ignore them.