Attitude is vital to running farther and faster.
Professional athletes know a big part of ability is mental attitude. Even for the casual runner, a positive attitude is just as important -- if not more -- than physical capability. Long-distance marathon runners are not that much different than average ones. They understand that the human body is capable of performing better and longer with the right effort, and apply that knowledge to break down mental barriers. There is no magic to achieving this. It comes down to attitude, diversion and nutrition.
Instructions
1. Run at a pace you can maintain for a distance you have planned. For example, if you have set a mileage distance of six miles, and you feel extremely tired or winded at three miles, back off on the pacing until you can breath at a steady rate without increasing. Focus your mind on keeping your breath steady, to break down the barrier of failure to complete the final three miles.
2. Run until it hurts. Break down mental barriers by running with others who are your age. Talk to them as you run. Watch their performances. Choose someone you admire, who runs better than you, and break down your own limitations by comparing them to yourself.
3. Leave problems at home. If you start any race, run or even casual training routine with a bad attitude, your mental barriers will grow into mountains. If you are having problems in your personal life, don't think about it. Tell yourself that you will worry when you get back. Run with a clear mind. Focus on the beauty of the scenery, the sky or how proud you are of your own body, and the fact that you are running.
4. Eat nutritious meals before the run, because good mental attitude relies partly on proper nourishment. Certain foods actually feed your brain what it needs to think clearly. For example, carbohydrates are fuel for the body as well as the mind. The better your body feels, the less likely you are to have mental barriers.
5. Drink plenty of fluids that contain electrolytes, which create better brain-to-muscle communication. Electric signals pass through nerves using electrolytes as conductors. Staying well-hydrated will help break down mental and physical barriers while running.
6. Run at a steady pace until you begin to doubt you will make your goal. Divert your mind by thinking thoughts that consume your concentration. One of the best mental diversions is sex. This thought will almost always completely break down any mental barrier that is preventing you from going farther or longer.
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