No need to beat yourself up over a "bad" run
"Bad" runs happen, so when it does, learn from it and improve.
For myself, and what I might tell my clients, ask:
1. What went wrong?
Example: I started out too fast and didn't stick to my plan. This caused me to burnout and not be able to run like I wanted.
2. How might I execute it better?
Example: Slow down the next time. Remember to resist the urge to go faster than planned. It is tempting to take off with the crowd or to over-do it in the beginning because I'm feeling fresh.
Being mean to yourself works against you.
The next time that you are down on yourself, pause that thought process and think, so you can grow.
#runningtips #ultrarunningtips #ultrarunner #trailrunner #finishstrongermindsetcoaching
Experiencing a "bad" run is something every runner faces at one point or another, and it’s important to remember that it’s not a failure but an opportunity for growth. Many runners start their sessions with excitement and push the pace early, only to find themselves struggling later, which can cause both physical burnout and mental frustration. The key to mastering your running journey lies in understanding what went wrong and adjusting strategies for next time. When you reflect on a tough run, start by asking yourself questions like: Did I start too fast? Did I ignore my planned pacing? Was I feeling pressured to keep up with others? Recognizing these factors allows you to create actionable goals for future runs. For example, you might decide to consciously slow down at the start, resist the temptation to sprint ahead just because you feel fresh, and trust your pacing plan. Importantly, self-compassion plays a huge role in recovery and improvement. Beating yourself up mentally not only damages confidence but negatively impacts performance on subsequent runs. Instead, view each "off" day as a learning curve. This mindset switch helps build resilience and encourages a growth-oriented approach to training. In ultra running and trail running, where endurance and pacing are critical, maintaining a positive mindset is even more essential. Being kind to yourself supports better mental stamina needed for long distances. Remember, the path to becoming a stronger runner doesn’t come from perfection but from consistent, mindful practice and learning from every experience. By embracing not-so-good runs and using them as stepping stones, you enhance your ability to finish strong both mentally and physically. So next time you feel down about a run, pause, reflect constructively, and move forward with confidence.
