Overcoming Race Day Anxiety and Effective Training Strategies - Episode 228

Welcome to the Running Life podcast with Coach Aaron Saft! In today's episode, Coach Aaron delves into a mix of topics, sharing insights from his athletes' experiences and his own training journey. He addresses the common pitfall of over-focusing on specific race segments, using examples from races like Leadville and Western States. Aaron emphasizes the importance of a well-rounded training approach that includes aerobic fitness, mental preparation, and integrating specific race conditions at the right time. Coach Aaron also explores the mental aspect of racing, discussing how meditation and staying present can significantly improve performance and reduce anxiety. He shares personal anecdotes and practical tips on how to train the mind to stay focused and positive, even in the most challenging parts of a race. Additionally, the episode covers crucial training elements such as nutrition, hydration, and the importance of balancing workout intensity to avoid overtraining. Aaron provides advice on how to adapt training plans to include vertical gain, heat training, and how to effectively use tools like heart rate monitoring and treadmill workouts. Whether you're training for your first ultra or looking to refine your race strategy, this episode is packed with valuable tips and insights to help you achieve your running goals. Tune in and keep moving forward!   Resources: Headspace Meditation App - https://www.headspace.com/ Training Essentials for Ultrarunning by Jason Koop - https://www.jasonkoop.com/book Mental Training for Ultrarunning by Addie Bracy - https://www.amazon.com/s?k=mental+training+for+ultrarunning&hvadid=598726248443&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9010291&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=418709563311563269&hvtargid=kwd-1364307142448&hydadcr=15553_13558561&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_2cyixb740w_e Dietitian Kendra Miller - https://fuelinglifenutrition.com/about/meet-our-team/   Aaron's information: If you'd like to learn more about Patreon or to donate, please visit https://www.patreon.com/RunningIsLife My Socials, Channels, & Newsletter:https://www.facebook.com/MRRUNNINGPAINSCOACHING https://www.instagram.com/runningislifecoaching/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQ6J512qA34z_N0KJSU4jfw https://www.strava.com/athletes/18431982  Email - [email protected] Thanks to all of you for listening! Please share the Podcast and please leave a review, rate, & subscribe if you haven't done so already! THANK YOU! Aaron Saft Running Is Life Coaching & Podcast I'd be remiss not to thanks to my Patrons for their continued support!