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Running the Boilermaker presents mental challenges for many runners

By By EVAN WHITE

Story Created: Jul 10, 2008 at 4:19 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jul 10, 2008 at 6:41 PM EDT

UTICA - The Boilermaker road race presents challenges for middle of the pack runners and first timers. Why do runners struggle mentally and what can be done to clear such hurdles?

It will be hot, muggy, and just plan uncomfortable come Sunday morning but the elements are a small part of Boilermaker challenges facing those who do not spend most of their summers running the toughest part can be convincing your brain that you can do it.

Exercise Physiologist Jim LaFountain who has finished two boilermakers claims to have trained hundreds for it. He says the key to staying mentally sharp if you are not a running veteran, is to stick with your routine, do not buy new shoes or train differently for the race.

Here are few more tips on running a smart race:

  •  Stay relaxed
  •  Go at a comfortable pace, do not let a planned 9 minute mile turn into an 8 minute one.
  •  Do not start with faster runners.
  •  Make it fun!

"Really enjoy the present moment, you have trained for it. The second thing is that you are not doing something other runners aren't experiencing, everyone is experiencing the same minor discomfort," says LaFountain.

While the mental challenges can slow you, the physical problems can completely drive you off course. Medical experts say to keep in mind hydration around every corner of the 15k.
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