Just recently, I made a post for tips and advice to mentally prepare for a half marathon, it was focused on pre-race preparation. This article will focus the actual running and start line, because this is where nerves came really become unhinged.
-At the starting line
Between the time the shuttles drop you off, and the actually start of the race, this can sometimes be a long time. And usually if you just stand there and wait, this can cause for anxiety because you want to get started with the race. So here are some things to keep in mind and to do at the start line
*Prepare for a lot of people at the starting line. This is something that runners don't really expect. But at some races, there could be thousands of runners at the start, and a lot of commotion. If a lot of people are bothersome, then I suggest hanging out away from the crowd, but be close enough to here the announcer for the race start.
*Some races has things to do at the start. This sometimes include several fire pits, for colder races. Some will have a live band playing, or music will be playing over a speaker, Others will have a few vendor booths showing merchandise. These are great to check, it'll help get your mind off the running.
*If you brought your breakfast with you, the wait time before the race is a good time to eat it. Some like eating a couple of hours before running, others, right before running. It all depends on the runner.
*There are places to use the restroom. At every race that I have been a part of, there has always been port-a-johns. These are good to use to take care of the 'nervous pee' before the race. Even if you feel like you don't have to go....go anyway. This can be a big help in lowering anxiety.
*Talk to other runners. This is one of my favorite things to do before a race. Talk to the other people that are running with you. I find it fascinating hearing their journey that led them up to the race. This will help greatly to calm your nerves, and it'll help calm theirs. Virtually, everybody will be willing to talk, and you'll have fun learning about each other. And for you single runners....you could potentially find Mr/Mrs future spouse.
*Sizing up the other runners. Whether you are a competitive runner, or one just hoping to finish. Its always a little nerve racking seeing the other runners, with some of them looking to fly down the course. The best suggestion that I can think of, is visualize the very start. Imagine seeing other runners, imagine them looking like Olympians. Then imagine how your mind is going to respond to it. This will help you prepare for the actual start.
These are suggestion to keep your nerves in check from the time you get off the shuttle, to the sound of the starting gun. If there are any other suggestions that you have, post them in the comments below. Later, I will post Part 3, mental tips for running the race.
See also: Mental tips for running a half marathon: Part 3
See also: Mental tips for running a half marathon: Part 1
0 comments:
Post a Comment