The lead-up to the big day
It’s getting close now to Cigna Round the Bays on February 19 and many runners may feel nerves creeping in. That’s normal. This is a good thing.
It means you have a healthy respect for the challenge and care about doing well.
Here are some tips that may help: Have two goals in mind. The first goal is a time you would be elated with and dream of achieving. It is also a time you could reach if all things fell into place i.e. perfect weather, you get enough sleep the night before, enough hydration, you don’t feel stressed etc.
The second goal time is the one you hope to finish by.
Tell friends and family about the latter goal to take the pressure off having to perform on event day. Or you could consider telling friends ‘‘my goal is to finish with a smile on my face’’.
If friends or family offer to support you at the event, then take them up on this. It can be a wonderful boost having friendly faces cheer on your success. When I ran my first halfmarathon, I had lots of wonderful support which I was so grateful for.
I also had a friend offer to run alongside me and it was support I will always treasure.
When my legs got tired that day, he helped encourage me to keep going strong (even though my legs were screaming stop!).
Remember your breath reveals your state. If your breath is quick and shallow, you will not perform at your best.
So, try to relax and not let distractions, or negative thoughts, get in the way.
Consider using a mantra for event day.
I repeat a few words that empower me, while other people count to six to help them focus. Use what works for you.