How Do You Tell Yourself To Keep Running?

I grew up with a competitive spirit and find letting go of the fight a struggle. Self-talk before, during, and after a run has transformed my mindset. It has allowed me to stay strong and work for longer than my body thought was possible, and yours too.

It started a couple of years ago, during an early morning trip to a race. I told myself to think of three positive affirmations that would anchor me to finish strong. Bearing in mind that this race was 10km, I knew I wanted nothing more than to feel happy and aligned with positive thoughts. I recall the affirmations: “I am strong, I am motivated, and I am ready.” And what do you know, the 5km long runs leading up to the race matched this belief, and I finished the 10km successfully on tired legs.

I started picking up running biographies like Ryan Sandes’ Trail Blazer and Shane Benzie’s The Lost Art of Running. Beyond the running-specific tips that fuel strong intrinsic motivation, I also read books about explorers and famous sportsmen from South Africa to Iraq. There is something about reading books that sets my mindset for running in a way no other source can match. Yes, social media creeps in and releases loads of endorphins, but those feelings fizzle once a cool breath of air flows past. Books churn the seas of my mind and align my feet in the direction of the magician manipulating its space in time.

I began to document my training runs and implement rate of perceived exertion (RPE) into my program. Segmenting training allows the body and mind to adjust and settle into the experience. The problems I face can now be addressed. Although performance isn’t everything, the right mindset leads to a happier soul on the run.

If you’re chasing times and striving to be competitive, implementing proper nutrition and understanding how your body reacts and adapts to certain training stimuli will get you there.

- Scott