Shift your mindset, boost your running

I am trying not to jinx myself.

I’ve had four solid weeks without any nagging injuries. Four weeks. I can’t remember the last time that I have felt so good about my training. Definitely not within the last couple of years.

My weekly mileage averaged about 80 kilometres over in March. About 90 per cent were easy running or hiking but I am so thrilled with my progress. My dialled in strength training and pool work has definitely made a difference in my mobility.

The big shift, of course, has been my mindset. I am determined not to let my reoccurring injuries bring me down anymore. I want out of this endless pandemic funk. I’ve always believed a positive outlook will get you far in life – whatever energy you put out there is the one you are going to get back.

Sometimes I just don’t apply this outlook to my training. And that’s Running 101. I have always loved that expression – change your mind, change your world. We can easily apply that to running.

A few years ago, I sprained my right ankle badly while out on a run in West Bragg. I couldn’t wear a shoe let a sneaker for a couple of months.

I was forced to slow down and do a lot of strength training and rehab on both my ankles. Thankfully it wasn’t a full on break and I can still run today. At the time, it felt like it was the end of the world for me. It could have been a lot worse.

So if you are struggling to get out the door or if you need a boost, just remember to count your blessings and to keep running.

Do you have a strong running mindset? How do you stay positive when things are going well? I would love to hear from you in the comments below.