Five mental tricks to propel you through the last mile of your run

Getting through a long run or a marathon is both physical and mental. It takes days, weeks, and, for some, even months to get into shape for an x-mile run. Preparing your body is just half the battle. Runners need to get their minds in the game as well. So what do you do when you think, “I just can’t make it to the end?” If you want to do the last lap or hit the finish line, here are five mental tricks to propel you through the last mile of your run.

BREAK IT DOWN

You may be running a challenge for days and if just the thought overwhelms you, then break it down. For example, if it’s a 6-day challenge, think about the challenge in 3 rounds, two days each. Try to conquer one round at a time instead of thinking about all the days at once.

LOOK BACK

When you want to propel yourself through the last mile, think about how much you’ve accomplished to get this far. Think about the time when you couldn’t even run half a mile. And now? You are unstoppable.

GO TO YOUR HAPPY PLACE

Don’t let the strain of the sheer physical aspects of your run beat you on the last mile. Think about how you’ll feel when you finish it – accomplished, right?

GET MUSIC

Music is a powerful motivator. Find the song that encourages you to go on. Turn on the music when you can’t take another step.

SPEAK UP

“I got this”! Go ahead and be your cheerleader. You are your best friend and coach. When you verbalize confidence loudly, you are likelier to keep going and finish what you started.