Mind Over Matter

Being more aware of your mental and physical state can help boost your running performance – here’s how

Have you ever suffered a running injury? Or talked yourself out of going for a run because you know it’ll be tough? You’re not alone. Avoid these hurdles and improve your performance by using the power of your mind, with these tips from new book Mindful Thoughts for Runners by Tessa Wardley (Leaping Hare Press, £6.99).

Avoid injury

‘Running is a balance between pushing yourself to your physical limits and being mindful not to push yourself beyond those limits. Every runner dreads injury and having to take time off from running. It is, therefore, important for runners to have an awareness of their bodies and when they are struggling. As you train, you learn how to push yourself, but you also need to learn when you are exceeding safe limits and to respond accordingly. It is a fine line, but the implications of overtraining and pushing yourself too far are injuries and illness, which lead to enforced downtime.’

Do a body scan

‘A preventative tool is the full-body scan, which centers you in your physical being and brings you into the present moment. Carrying out this exercise as you run is a useful way to come into full awareness, not only of the moment but also of yourself. You can review how you’re getting on – areas of physical niggles and the sensations of running. In this way, you can identify problems before they develop.