Train Your Brain Mental Preparation for Race Day

Train Your Brain

Mental Preparation for race day

Dr Heather Bechtel

MIT, you have put in all the work for your race.  You’ve done your miles and tested your gear.  Your body is prepared for a great day!  But what else can you do to ensure you will have a good race?  You also need your brain in shape to achieve your goals.  So, how do you prepare your brain to help you do your best?

1. Review the race course map.  In particular, look for large elevation changes, water stations, first aid tents, and any major landmarks along the way.
2. Do you and your training partners plan to go together, or is everyone free to “run their own race?”  Make sure everyone is on the same page ahead of time.
3. Do you know how you might feel at a start line?  Are you a nervous starter who needs to calm down?  Or do you like to be “pumped up” at the start line?  Do you want music, mantras, plans with friends or something else to accomplish this?
4. How will you feel at the landmarks listed above?  Again, will you want music, mantras, or other plans to put yourself in the right headspace?
5. If you have support people and spectators, ask where they will be.  Can they meet you somewhere where you might need a mental boost?  Will they have a special sign or treat for you (if allowed)?
6. If you have a chance, do you want to drive or run or walk some portion of the course ahead of time?  Some prefer to know exactly what the “lay of the land” is, while others prefer the novelty of the scenery as extra motivation.

Every person is going to have different answers to the questions above, and that’s why you should consider this for yourself.  If this is your first race, asking coaches, pacers and experienced MITers for advice can be very helpful.  Go get your goals, and we will see you on the course!