Do you find yourself nervous and anxious on race day?
Do you question if you can complete your goal, hit that goal time… or worse, whether you will even make the finish line?
Does stress take over your mind and body and negative thoughts dominate those finals moments before the start gun?
Just remember being a little nervous is ok, it means you care, it means your goal is important to you. However, the key is to not let anxiety and negativity take over.
Here are some tips that I find handy and keep me as relaxed as possible on race day.
Your training
It all starts from the time you set that goal and find, create or are given your training plan. Stick to the plan, do the hard work from the get go and know your physical preparation has been up to scratch and your body is ready. This includes a good taper.
Be prepared, plan your travel and arrival time, aim to arrive early.
Don't make things worse by running around being stressed about the little things on the morning of the race that could've been avoided with a little forethought and preparation the night before. Have your race gear laid out and ready, have your nutrition sorted and if necessary your bag packed with everything else you might need.
Separate yourself from the world. Keep to yourself and listen to some calming, relaxing music. Focus on your breathing and relax your body and mind. (a cheeky bathroom break probably wouldn't hurt either)
Once you have arrived early you don't need to go straight to the start line. Stay away from the crowds and those who may be anxious and nervous themselves which could affect you.
Reward
Know the reward that will come your way at the end and the feeling of success and accomplishment you will have once your goal is achieved.
Visualise success and fill yourself with positive thoughts and images.
Close your eyes and picture yourself running (or cycling, swimming etc.) the race, crossing the finish line and creating success.
Now that you're nice and calm and you have trained and prepared like a demon. Get out there and dominate like the champions you are.
*Disclaimer: Individual results vary based on agreed goals. Click here for details.
