Visualization: Mike was big on this one… the self-fulfilling prophecy (i.e. if I think it, then it will come true) can have a powerful affect on your running. Visualization involves mentally rehearsing positive outcomes of future events. For example, one might lay down, relax, and think about how a future race will play out. The person will visualize himself or herself running quickly and effortlessly, overcoming any obstacles, etc.
Positive Self Talk: Self talk is the "internal dialog" which goes through a person's mind, such as, when running, a person might "tell" himself or herself that he or she is tired and feeling sluggish. As in my case, during a triathlon many may have heard me say the phrase, “I’m not a runner” – It kills me EVERYTIME! And that’s when Laura catches me on the run. That damn self-fulfilling prophecy works against me. Positive self talk, on the other hand, can contribute to a higher performance. Training the mind to "say" things like "I'm feeling really good today" or "this isn't really that hard" keeps the internal "dialog" positive and should result in better performance. I know, I know… sounds corny, but it works!
Focusing/Monitoring: The ability to concentrate on the task at hand and block out unnecessary stimuli can be very useful for runners. If the mind is allowed to wander, the runner can often find himself or herself drifting back off the pace. Focusing on relevant stimuli or a certain phrase, the rate of breathing, and split times can prevent mind wandering.
Mental Bargaining: Making "mental deals" with oneself is an excellent way to overcome barriers when running. For example, if a runner has a mile left to go in a race, rather than focusing on running fast for the whole mile, the runner might bargain with himself or herself by splitting the distance up into quarters. The self talk might play out as follows: "All right, I have a mile to go. That's four 1/4 miles. Running 1/4 miles at this pace is relatively easy. Let's run this first 1/4 (which will be easy) fast and see how it goes."
External Affirmations: In most cases, running spectators are very supportive, both to teammates and non-teammates alike. Comments such as "you're looking good" or "keep up the strong pace" are commonly thrown out to runners throughout the race. The smart competitor will take these comments at face value and use them to augment any internal affirmations or positive self talk. So especially, when you hear our Team Groove cheers out there on the course… lengthen your stride, put your head up and run with the strength and honor our Mike always did.
