Newbie Notes: Long Distance Running is a Mental Battle

Sports will always be a form of escape. It relieves the athlete of everyday stress even though their bodies might ache after a good session. It’s good stress, though, where they can relax and sleep soundly thereafter.

Be that as it may, running comes with a hidden surprise of being a mental sport. Sure, a 5K or a 10K run on any given day can boost your mood, but when it stretches beyond that—a half-marathon, a full marathon, or even an ultramarathon—things start playing inside your head. Newbie runners may think that it’s their body that’s complaining (think of it like cramps that come out of nowhere on kilometer 12), but in reality, it’s their mind that’s playing tricks on them.

“Why Am I Here?”

Somewhere around the halfway mark of your 21K or 42K is a little voice that will ask you this question. You might be cruising along; you’re hitting your pace, and you just had your first energy gel. 

You’re feeling strong and expecting to chug down that mandatory beer that’s waiting on the finish when suddenly your brain whispers, “Why are we here? Why are we doing this?” 

It’s quite normal for these questions to pop up if you want to put things bluntly. And no, you’re not having some mental breakdown when in fact you’re on your way to finishing what is poised to be a new personal best. It’s just that your brain is testing (or teasing) you. It’s pushing your buttons. 

From here the real battle begins. It’s either you give up or run more and stick to your plan.

“Are We There Yet?”

Running a half or full marathon will seem like an eternity; how much more an ultramarathon race?

Looking at your watch or monitoring your time can be somewhat of a curse, especially for distance athletes. You might be wondering why your LSDs (long, slow distance) run or the race itself can take forever. You glance at your watch, only to find out that you’ve only moved a couple of steps. 

It’s quite exaggerated, but yes, there comes a time when a race might feel that it goes on and on. It’s another mental trick that usually happens when the finish line is on the horizon. Sometimes, it happens during the early part of the race, and just when you think you have everything under control. 

Veteran runners will often give one piece of advice: STOP LOOKING AT YOUR WATCH. Running events will have markers along the way, including water stations at some distance. This will give you a visual indication of where you are and an added boost of confidence knowing that the turnaround is just around the corner. 

Stick with your pace, continue your rhythm, and maintain your breathing. It’s only a matter of time before you cross the finish line.

“Thank you. Next”

After convincing yourself that quitting is not an option at this point (yes, this question will also bug you on your way), the only thing that’s left is for you to bask in your achievement and prepare for what’s next. 

The idea of quitting at mid-race is, again, normal, particularly for beginner runners and those who haven’t fully prepared to take on the challenge. But when the dust settles, they see that medal around their necks and that all-too-glorious finisher shirt; it’s a safe bet that they’ll be more than eager to take things up a notch.

Set realistic goals, whisper something positive, and think of yourself finishing the race in one piece. Don’t let that little voice take over.

You can do it.