Mental Strength and Running: How to Become Stronger

After years of running, I have discovered something important about myself, I am mentally strong. This epiphany came after numerous setbacks during training. I found that no matter the setback I always performed better than I thought I would. It turns out that running isn’t all about physical strength, especially at the end of a tough race. Once the physical strength starts to fade, that’s when the mental strength pulls you through. Having mental strength is important for runners. Keep reading for ways to become a stronger runner by gaining mental strength!

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Let Your Mind Run

Recently, I finished Deena Kastor’s book, “Let Your Mind Run: A Memoir of Thinking My Way to Victory”. If you need some inspiration from an elite runner’s perspective, this is the book for you! I wasn’t sure going into the book if it would be relatable for the average runner, but her mental struggles are something that we all go through. I especially loved her description of her first marathon. It is the PERFECT example of what all first-time marathoners think about! After reading the book, I have a deeper appreciation for my “mental grit” as my coach used to call it, and how powerful our thoughts are in shaping our reality.     

Always Keep Moving Forward

One thought that I find myself constantly focusing on when running is “always keep moving forward”. No matter how slow I am going, how tired I am, or what is going on around me, I know that with each stride I am propelling myself one step closer to something. I remind myself that if I just keep putting one foot in front of the other, I will be somewhere new. Never stop moving forward and you will reach where you are supposed to be, in running, and in life! One moment might be tough, but by pushing through it you will come out the other side stronger!

You Are Stronger Than You Think You Are

This is something that I want to tell all runners who are thinking about running a marathon. Our bodies are capable of amazing things, and with training and dedication, anything is possible! If you tell yourself you can do it, if you can imagine yourself doing it, you can think your dreams into reality. Deena talks about this in her book. She would meditate on her races and see herself finishing strong. You must believe in yourself and know that you can do anything you put your mind too.  

Chase Yourself

In Deena’s book, she talks about imaging a strong version of herself and chasing it. I initially thought this was an odd idea. Who wants to play chase with an imaginary self-projection? But, one day I was struggling during a run, and I started to think about what I could be at my best. Then I imagined that version of me taking off and me having to chase… me. It sounds weird, but just the simple act of imagining myself as strong and fast made me feel powerful and more motivated.

Mantras

When running gets tough, mantras can be a lifesaver. Find the mantra that makes you feel strong and use it whenever you need an extra push during a run. Write it down and stick it on your bathroom mirror. Let it give you power and remind yourself just how amazing you are. I use the mantra “I am strong” frequently, but the possibilities are endless! Also, goal mantras like “I am a marathoner” or even “I am a runner” can be helpful when any self-doubt starts to creep in. Don’t let it get in your head, be stronger than those thoughts!  

Being Strong Can Also Mean REST

I struggle with this HARDCORE. Running is my stress relief and makes me feel like I am doing something good for myself. Unfortunately, it is possible to have too much of a good thing. Some days I need to listen to my body and REST. This is TOUGH for me mentally. Being mentally strong can mean listening to your body and letting yourself heal and recover when needed. I will continue to work on this aspect knowing that rest is not a weakness, it’s a part of mental strength and running.

Do Not Be Limited By Expectations

Denna talks about self-limiting thoughts in her book. She uses the example of only having expectations to finish in the top five, thus not even trying to get first-place. If you are only expecting to reach a certain goal, who knows what you could do if you remove that limitation. Could you surpass that goal? This concept was something I had never considered before. By removing expectations and being the best you can possibly be, how far could you go?

You Are Capable Of More Than You Know

You are capable of SO MUCH more than you know! Sometimes we must do something that scares us, like taking the leap to run a race or even moving to a new place. You know what? You can do it because you are capable of more than you know, and you will rise to the challenge!

This mental strength is something I have been reminding myself of recently. At the Walt Disney World Marathon this year I saw people with Dopey Challenge medals and thought “Wow! That’s crazy impressive! I could never do that.”. Well, with some convincing from my ever-supportive husband I realized that I absolutely could do that! I am capable of so much more than I even realize. Now I have the Dopey Challenge on my Bucket List and I can’t wait to tackle it!  

Conclusion

Mental strength has pulled me through numerous races and helped me achieve many of my running goals. Even elite athletes struggle with this aspect of running as Deena Kastor describes in her book. I know I need to keep working on my physical and mental strength. They both require dedication and resolve. I know that unlimited potential is possible with positive thinking and a strong mind. This mental strength can help me overcome any obstacle and surpass my wildest expectations.  

If you want to read more about Mental Strength and Running, check out Deena Kastor’s book below!

For more running inspiration check out 13 Excellent Reasons to LOVE Running!

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