Coyote Runner ©

Coyote Tales

THe Hidden evil - Self Doubt

Self doubt always pops up - miles 18 through 20 are the perfect time to start to lose the mental battle.  Just when the pain starts - "I really should have done another long run" "I missed too many workouts" "Speed sessions, I should have gone to the track more" "There is another marathon in three weeks; I can just run that one"

Stay vigilant. You can win the battle.  Conquer self doubt.   Have faith in your training; have faith in yourself.  Use those doubts to fuel your success.  You put in the miles and earned the right to a great race.

Always RUn On MOnday - CoMMITMENT Wins

Stick with your training plan.  That doesn't mean the plan set at the beginning won't change, but once you have made the commitment, keep with it.  The hardest part about achieving success is executing your plan.  You can always find an excuse to not run.  Figure out before creating your plan the factors that will limit your ability to keep the commitment: family, work, having a life outside training (which we all want).  It can often help to compartmentalize the effort required for training to a specific block of time and know that there is a light at the end of the tunnel.

Dark Days ahead - post race depression

Not a lot of people talk about it, but post race depression (PRD) happens.  And it is natural.

"I trained so hard; I can't do it again."  "I just don't have the fire anymore."  "I focused on this race for so long, and now that I did it, I don't know what is left."

PRD happens with all types athletes, even those that met their race goals. Knowing that PRD exists and that it is normal is half the battle.  The rest of the battle is being honest with yourself - knowing your personality, knowing your motivators, anticipating how you will react post race, and working toward minimizing the impact of PRD.

Some athletes are able to heal simply with the passage of a few months.  Others often need a break from the sport or a new goal. But you can succeed.

THE SECRET HANDSHAKE - WEIGHT, GAIT & STATE

It may seem like there is a secret handshake in running, and there is - weight, gait & state.

Are you watching your weight?  Are you carrying a few extra pounds into the race?  Proper nutrition applies all day.  Find moderation where you need it, but stay vigilant, and you will see results.

Do your legs feel tired and slow?  Maybe you need to increase your pace or shorten your stride while increasing turnover.  Approach steep hills differently than flats.  Learn to adjust your gait as needed.

Are you mentally prepared for the race?  Know what motivates you. Don't let doubt creep in.  Make sure your head is in the game during both training and racing.