My first marathon is in 26 days and I'm getting a tiny bit nervous. Everyone talks about visualizing the race, but I've never done it. I'm running the Detroit Full and I ran the half last year as my first half. The first half of the full is the exact course of the half of last year (if that makes sense).
So I already know what to expect for the first 13 miles, it's the second 13.2 that I'm a bit worried about. I've studied the map a million times and have an idea of what I'm getting myself into. Surprisingly, I'm not doubting that I can finish the distance; I just want to be upright and actually running at that point.
Have you ever visualized a race? Do you visualize the beginning or the end? I'm not sure if I should be doing more mentally to get ready.
I feel very confident in my training and have found the right fueling techniques that work for me, but I'm not sure if there is such a thing as mental prep.
I feel very confident in my training and have found the right fueling techniques that work for me, but I'm not sure if there is such a thing as mental prep.
I don't have any great words of advice except to just keep telling yourself that 'you're strong, ready, and can do this!" that has gotten me through a lot of races. We should try to meet up before the race! I'm only doing the half, but I'd love to meet you! (or maybe at the expo?)
ReplyDeleteRelax and have fun! Make sure to take in the entire experience from the crowd support, to the sights of the city.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck to you!
I like to tell my participants to drive the course if they have an opportunity. This helps ensure there are no surprises on the course for you. Also, I use visualization as a way of relaxing. Just imagine your favorite route or mile and mentally place your self there when things get tough!
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