Coach’s Ramble: Facing the Fear
RACE DAY
The days leading up to the marathon are a whirlwind of emotions, each one swirling together in an intoxicating mix of excitement and dread. My stomach feels like a storm is brewing inside, a constant churn that reminds me of the miles ahead. I can’t escape the fear that wraps around me like a thick fog, clouding my mind just as it obscures my view.
As I run through the familiar streets in the days before the race, I can’t help but worry about everything that could go wrong. What if I trip over my own feet when the gun goes off? What if my legs give out after a few miles, leaving me stranded on the sidelines, watching everyone else race ahead? Those thoughts hover relentlessly, making my heart race even more than my training runs ever could.
The anxiety creeps in at night, manifesting in sleepless hours filled with doubts and "what-ifs." I scroll through my mental checklist: Did I hydrate enough? Have I eaten the right foods? Did I rest enough, or did I overtrain? Each question spins into another wave of worry, and the quiet comfort of my bed suddenly feels like a battleground against my racing thoughts.
On race day, the atmosphere is electric, packed with fellow runners sharing nervous laughter and exchanging last-minute advice. But even amidst the camaraderie, I feel isolated in my anxiety. The colorful banners and cheering spectators turn into high-pressure reminders of my own expectations. Am I prepared enough for this? Have I trained hard enough? Will I be able to cross that finish line, or will I crumble under the weight of my own fears?
As the start time approaches, I can feel the anxiety tightening its grip on my chest, making it hard to breathe. I try to find grounding in my surroundings, focusing on the bright faces around me, the rhythmic sound of shoes hitting the pavement, and the palpable energy in the air. And then comes the countdown.
When the horn blares, something shifts. The fear doesn't disappear, but it transforms. I push through the throngs of people, propelled by that unshakeable camaraderie that is the heartbeat of this incredible event. As my legs find their rhythm, I realize that it's okay to feel scared. We're all here, together, sharing this journey. The anxiety remains, but it becomes a part of the experience, blending into the joy and thrill of moving forward, mile after mile.
Maybe it's not about conquering the fear but learning to run alongside it, turning what once felt burdensome into the fuel that propels me. And as the finish line draws near, I embrace both the anxiety and the exhilaration, knowing that this is what it means to be part of the running community, confident in our shared pursuit of strength, resilience, and connection.
THE FEAR
Fear is a natural part of every runner's journey. Whether it's toeing the line at your first race, tackling a new distance, or facing the loneliness of a long run, fear often lurks in the background, whispering doubts into our minds. However, this feeling isn’t just a barrier; it can be a powerful signal that highlights our potential for growth.
In the running community, we often share our fears, perhaps it’s about not finishing a race, or struggling with pace. Acknowledging these fears is the first step in dismantling their hold over us. When we voice our apprehensions during a group run or a social gathering, we often find reassurance among fellow runners who have faced similar challenges. This sense of camaraderie can transform isolated fears into shared experiences, allowing us to feel less alone in our endeavors.
Managing our fear on the run can be as simple as focusing on our breath, visualizing our success, or engaging in positive self-talk. Imagine standing at the starting line, feeling that familiar flutter of nerves. Instead of letting anxiety consume us, we can take a deep breath, remind ourselves of the training we’ve put in, and visualize crossing the finish line. In these moments, fear shifts from a stagnant weight to energy propelling us forward.
Setting realistic goals and gradually pushing our limits in a supportive environment, like Wellesley Runners, can help build resilience. Every time we lace up our shoes and step out for practice, we embrace the potential discomfort that accompanies growth. We start by running shorter distances or tackling a set of hill repeats, and with each small victory, we cultivate confidence.
When we reframe fear as an opportunity for growth, we discover that it can fuel our performance. Turning that flutter of nerves into motivation to train harder and focus better allows us to channel our fears into determination. Each time we lace up, we are not just confronting our fears; we are actively seeking to improve ourselves.
Ultimately, fear can become a catalyst for progress in our running journey and in life. By recognizing and managing our fears, embracing them with the support of our community, we can transform anxiety into a powerful force that enhances our performance. Together, we can learn to see challenges as stepping stones toward personal growth, celebrating each other’s wins and finding strength in vulnerability.
Come let us help you harness those fears.
Stronger together.