The Runner’s Mind – Pt I

Running is 80% mental and 20% physical.  Well, maybe more physical than that, but you get my point.  It’s so tough to just get out there when there are so many reasons why NOT to.

Your family, your job, your vacations, your health, the weather – what excuse have you used in the past?  Come on…. really?  Unless there is a severe illness or death or dangerous running conditions, all of which I never wish upon anyone, there is time to run.  It is portable, lightweight (even 4 layers of sweats are lighter than football gear) and can be even as short as 20 minutes for a massive speed workout.

Your mind is always working against you – “I’m training and not getting faster”, “I was injured 3 yrs. ago”, “I’m scared to race – what if I come in last?”, “I don’t have time”, “my mom says it’s too cold”….

I’ve heard them all and, yes, I’ve used them also.  But, more often than not, I’ve gone out there and done it.  You can also – make it a priority.  At 1 job, I’d put a meeting on my calendar so that no one could take that spot.  I always had a gym bag with sneakers and running clothes in my trunk – you never know when a spontaneous group run might happen.  Make yourself accountable!  Run with friends, family – your dog!

This topic is huge – so I’m going to spit it.  The next section will be about balance, stress and pressure and the last piece will be about health and nutrition.

Your mind is very powerful – use it to your advantage!

#running #runningtips #NCRC

aaaamindl

 

Nickolas Joannidis
Nickolas Joannidis
I have been running for over 35 years, having done practically every possible racing event or distance from the 100 meters through the marathon. I competed in varsity high school cross country and track at Saddle Brook High School in the mid-1980's, varsity cross country and track at Division II Pace University and finished well over 200 road races since then, including 20 marathons with a lifetime best of 3:14:50. I was the president of the Hoffmann LaRoche corporate running team for 7 years, growing the team from 25 to over 90 during his tenure. I coached many of these runners to achieve their goals, whether they were beginners or advanced. In 2011 I was an assistant coach for the Fair Lawn Recreation track team, helping the 10 to 14 year old group. I am currently personally coaching dozens of runners, from beginner levels to advanced levels and getting them to be prepared to meet their goals.

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