Overcoming Mental Barriers in Long Runs
I used to struggle with my long runs, but with expert-backed mental tips, I'm learning to push through.
During a 12-mile long run, I reached the 10-mile mark and felt a sudden urge to stop. I was waiting at a crosswalk, not far from my old high school, and took a moment to assess my body. My feet hurt, but it was bearable. My knees and hips felt good, but I noticed discomfort in my shoulders, where I hold tension. I rolled them out, which helped.
However, I was also struggling with a misaligned nozzle on my new hydration bladder, which made it hard to get water. This contributed to my desire to stop. Despite the challenges, I knew I could run longer - I just didn't want to.
I couldn't get water out of my new hydration bladder thanks to a misaligned nozzle position, which contributed to me wanting to stop.
Author's summary: Mental tips help overcome long run struggles.