Turn Images into Reality
Each time you are energized by an experience or motivated by a performance, anchor the memory in your mind so that you'll be able to recall that vision whenever you need it. When you revisit positive memories on a regular basis, you can bring to mind empowering thoughts that will inspire your racing and recharge your life.
Techniques to Try
Once you are comfortable with the general practices of visualization, you can try incorporating more specific techniques into your training. Here are some ideas that have dramatically improved the performances of my clients.
Magnet Technique
Imagine you are running, you're getting tired, and the runner ahead of you has a magnet on her back. Rather than working hard to catch up, envision being effortlessly drawn to your competitor by the magnet's force. Once you pull alongside her, place the magnet on the back of the next runner ahead of you. Using the magnet image allows you to take your mind off your fatigue, sustain your concentration and have a bit of fun.
Chunking Technique
For longer races, it's often helpful to break the race up into separate "chunks." This technique will make a race, such as a marathon, feel less daunting and more manageable. You may not be certain that you can finish a 26-mile race if you've never completed this distance before, but you're sure you can finish two 13-mile runs. One popular scenario to visualize during a marathon is that you are first running a 10-mile loop, next a 10K race and finally a 10-mile trail run.
Running on Springs
Visualizations can help you improve your form as well. I worked with one runner who was having trouble returning to the sport post-injury. She reported that every time she tried to run on the track, her feet barely left the ground. It felt as if she had a weight on her back. I instructed her to visualize springs on the bottom of her feet, and to imagine springing along with every stride. Just by changing the image in her mind, she was able to run lighter, smoother and faster with less effort.
Sign up for a race and run your best.