3 Ways to Mentally Prepare for Race and Event Season
Whether you’ve been racing for years or you’re just getting your feet wet, the nerves can get the best of anyone. While you’re fine-tuning your training, meal prepping and getting in some extra ZZZs leading up to the big day, here are a few ways that can help you mentally prepare as well.
Visualize Success
As humans, we have a tendency to focus on the negative, which can create plenty of unnecessary worry and stress. Rather than internalizing a bad workout our stressing about scenarios when you haven’t even started the race, take just a few minutes out of your day to accept positive thoughts and visualize your success. Find what works best for you. If it helps you to focus on specific goals, such as a PR you’re hoping to achieve, write them down and post them somewhere you can see them every day. It can be easier said than done, but developing a more positive mindset and “can-do” attitude will boost your confidence.
Prepare Early
One of the best ways to put your mind at ease is to remember how much you’ve prepared for the event – especially by focusing on the “little things.” For many athletes, a successful routine begins long before the morning of their race. Throughout your training, incorporate smaller initiatives such as drinking an extra bottle of water and foam rolling after a tough workout.
Remember to enjoy the moment
At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that race events are not always about the end result. Sure, we all want to achieve our personal best and as mentioned before, it’s great to strive toward certain goals and want to continuously improve. However, taking a moment to soak in the process of the race, your purpose for getting out there and your love for the sport can help keep you motivated and alleviate the stress of how you ultimately perform.
Mental wellness goes a long way while preparing for event season. For physical wellness and maintenance, Structural Elements® is here to support you and your fitness goals.
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