How do you prepare for a big race?
I have a tried and tested routine which is designed to help me perform at my best. I always do this routine before a big race as I know it will help me to run fast. I’m not particularly superstitious so I don’t have any rituals, but I do wear a Japanese good luck mascot (“mamori”) pinned to my shorts.
Have you come across any unusual stories from fellow athletes about mental preparation for racing?
I know of a top marathon athlete who would look behind her as she left her hotel room to go to the start – this was her ritual for having a good performance. And I know of runners who will wear particular clothing for a big race, which makes them feel comfortable and confident.
Do you have any tips for dealing with the psychological side of preparing for a race?
Figure out what works for you – to calm nerves, relax, get yourself in the best frame of mind for a race – and then do it. Everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another. But once you know what works for you, don’t change it.
Have you ever faced a setback?
Oh yes! Lots of injuries and other setbacks. The best way to deal with them is to accept the situation you are in, and then make the best of it. Denial and beating yourself up for getting into a certain situation usually makes a bad situation worse.
What advice would you offer to runners about handling setbacks while training for a marathon?
Decide how serious it is, and then how you should react. If it’s a serious injury, it may need adjustments to training or rest. If it’s something more straightforward (eg failure to refuel properly after a big run), then resolve it as soon as you can, and learn from it for next time.
How important do you think the psychological side of training is when it comes to marathon running and racing in general?
The psychological side is everything in the marathon because it’s a long race and therefore you need to do a lot of training. Finding strategies that work for you to stay focused and motivated is crucial. If you can approach training and racing with a positive attitude, then the marathon can be great fun and very fulfilling.
