Mental Training?

Question

Coaches or runners, I need to find a method of mental preparation and training for a 5k cross country course. This summer I have run over 175 miles of plain base and aerobic exercise. Last year I had a best time of 17:37 on a hilly cross country course. I know my body is physically strong enough to go well into the 17's, but mentally I cannot overcome these times. Are there training exercises that I can do at practice, after practice, or at home to overcome the mental aspect of running a 5k race?

Answer 1

confidence comes with training... hill work outs + speed w/ 1/2 mile intervals (not same day)... can you run a race course for practice, get comfortable with routes... i ran over 1000 miles in the summers, you should do no less than 500

Answer 2

some goods things to realize is, that you need inspiration, and aspiration... you got to want to want it..  if i usually want to feel inspired and help my mental fortitude is reading quotes..

such as...

"It hurts up to a point and then it doesn't get any worse."   - Ann Trason

"No negative thoughts cross my mind on race day. When I look into their eyes, I know I'm going to beat them."   - Danny Harris

"The will to win means nothing if you haven't the will to prepare."   - Juma Ikangaa,

"Go Hard Or Go Home" anonymous

You have a choice. You can throw in the towel, or you can use it to wipe the sweat off of your face. -Gatorade

Do a little more each day than you think you possibly can.

-Lowell Thomas

hope these will help.. because they help me...

Answer 3

Hey Reggie's buddy!

Alrighty, CONFIDENCE is the key tool to running. There are some amazing runners out there that have low self-esteem, so they result in being crappy runners. In my opinion, running is like 70% mental. Your mind is trainable just as much as your body is. When you go out on your run everyday you remind yourself that you can do it, because if you didnt, you wouldnt be doing it, obviously. So when it comes time for your race, remind yourself the same thing, just like your going on a simple taining run. "You can do it!", should be going through your mind constantly. The numbers abd statistics, and training is all there, so now the last ingredient to your cake is confidence. If I can say you'll do great out there and i'm a complete stanger, you should have no problem telling yourself the same. Also talk to your coach, and teammates. Tell them how you feel, and they should give you a good pep talk. I wish you the best of luck, dude! Peace