Over 30’s running: Negative Nancy to Positive Polly

Often, a negative or weak mindset can lead to runners either not even attempting a race or stopping midway in a race (just to clarify: this isn’t always the case). As a result, I have compiled a list of different ways to help you create a positive mindset when running a race; be it a marathon, half marathon, triathlon or just training for a race.

Surround yourself with positive people

When you surround yourself with positive people, you’re likely to have their positivity brush off on to you. It’s inevitable, which is a good thing. Think of all the people who are negative and try your best to remove them from your life (sometimes, in certain circumstances, that’s not possible). Instead, find groups who share similar interests and are happy and outgoing.

If you’re a little timid and shy, surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded people could also help you to break out of your shell. You can do this by joining a sports club or go onto Meetup and see if there are any long-distance running groups around your area. This is also a great way for over 30s to meet and make new, life-long friends.

Remind yourself that you can do it

Months before the race even begins, you need to reassure yourself every morning and night that 'you can do it and you’re not going to fail'.

A positive mindset is fundamental to running a long-distance race.

Even if you don’t feel like it, saying, "I can do it" out loud can help you build your confidence and eventually you will genuinely believe you can do it.

Don’t be alarmed if you don’t think you can initially run the race because most people begin with this mentality. Let’s face it, these races are one heck of a long distance and therefore can feel unattainable at times - even for the best of runners. It may be a good idea to begin with a 5 km race and then build your way up to a full marathon.

Eat healthily

Having a positive mindset when you’re over 30 can be more challenging than it was when you were younger, so we need all the help we can get. One sure-fire way is to follow a healthy diet, which equates to a healthy mindset. Put the junk food away and start eating healthier, more natural foods. Although it may not seem like eating more healthy foods will impact your mentality at the time, I can assure you that you will feel better after just one or two days of eating less junk. I’m not saying you shouldn’t treat yourself to a chocolate bar every now and then (or even I’d go crazy), just make sure you keep it to 'now and then'.

Think of things you appreciate in life

Think of all the people in your life you appreciate. Then think of all the things in life you appreciate. For many of us, we are more fortunate than a lot of people in developing (third world) countries. To put into perspective how good most of us have it, think about the fact that you’re even able to afford to participate in a long distance race, as well as read this article on a device. Appreciate the good life we have; running just makes it that much better!