My Old Friend Jitters

By:  Stephanie Geraghty

Race-day jitters. Even though I’ve been competing in athletic events and races for two decades, this questionable old “friend” makes an appearance every time. He visits for my races and even visits me when I'm just a bystander at other people's races. I’ll confess a secret truth…sometimes he even joins me for tough Stroller Warriors runs, track workouts, or PFTs. Heck, just writing about this stuff is making the butterflies flutter right now!  Why in the world have years of experience NOT eliminated this problem?!





Me & Laurie at the 2005 Durango Half Marathon
That's us riding the bus to the start line of our
1st half marathon and feeling NERVOUS!
 

Here's the simple reason: We know that running is challenging. It’s perfectly normal to be a little nervous when you’re facing something difficult, like a race, and you care about the results. So how do we embrace those nerves and work through them?

 

Here’s a few tips that help me…

 

1) BE PREPARED: There’s something about planning my week in advance that helps me feel prepared, and therefore, more at ease. I think about what I will eat. I make lists of what I need to bring and pack my bag. The night before, I lay my gear out neatly and set my alarm twice, to ensure I don’t oversleep. I strive to arrive at the race site plenty early so I'm not stressed about being on time. Preparation does not circumvent unexpected twists but at minimum, you have retained the control that you can and it reassures an uneasy mind.

 

2)  THINK GOOD THOUGHTS: My high school coaches taught me the importance of positive thinking. Before each race I take some time to VISUALIZE the entire experience with a successful outcome. That includes thinking about waking up and getting ready, lining up at the start, running the race with powerful strides and controlled breathing, and finishing strong, crossing the line with a SMILE. I tell myself “I can do it” and practice positive self-talk. Block out the negative and just focus on the positive. Reflect on all the training you’ve done instead of worrying about any missed workouts, injuries, or illness. Seeing it all unfold in my mind makes the reality of it attainable.

 

3)  FIND YOUR SECURITY BLANKET: At a young age I was exceedingly superstitious. I insisted on wearing a specific necklace or hair-tie every meet or game. I also told myself that if I found money the day of an event it would be a good day. Regardless that this could not impact my performance, it still made me feel better! I would encourage you to find a small process that comforts you or maybe even a lucky item that you wear. I have worn a Road ID bracelet for nearly every race since 2005. It’s not only for safety, it’s just something that makes me smile and feel secure. I also like to run a 15-minute pre-race shakeout the night prior, usually after dusk. There’s something about the peace of the night that soothes me and gets me in the right mindset for the next morning. Please note that your tradition or lucky charm should not define your race or result in devastation without it! But, on the flipside, I don’t think a small “security blanket” hurts either!

 

4) UNDERSTAND YOUR PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS: I’m going to refrain from graphic detail but this must be addressed! When I’m preparing for competition my body prepares too. I want to reassure you that for most runners, both beginners and experienced, tummy aches, nausea, and frequent bathroom breaks are not uncommon on race day. They usually subside by the start. (Keep in mind that I’m not a doctor so please don’t take this as medical advice! I cannot say for sure whether your own symptoms are typical for you. Always consult a doctor if you are concerned.)

 

5) TALK TO FELLOW RUNNERS: One of the most enjoyable parts of racing is the camaraderie of fellow runners. Perhaps start the race with a friend at your side or even strive to make a new friend. Chances are the strangers next to you are feeling jitters too. Strike up a conversation and it might result in a new running buddy! Don’t be shy. Reaching out might be the difference to having a great race.

 



Despite our nerves, being together,
laughing, and having fun
made the nerves much less prominent.
(Love you and miss you, "Crapface"!)

6) REMEMBER TO HAVE FUN: As runners we all have goals in mind when we endure training. Goals are an important factor in maintaining motivation. However, those goals should never supersede having fun! Running and racing is a gift and we should not take it for granted. Some of my best friendships and memories are born out of running and racing, so treasure those moments and don’t let jitters or anything else intercede! If you have to, do a goofy frolic, wear a costume, sing a song, tell a wacky story, or break out in dance. Whatever makes you smile and reminds you that you're living life to the fullest and nothing can bring you down, do it!

 

I hope these suggestions help you overcome some of your own race-day challenges. After years of being irritated about my nervous nature, I now embrace the inevitable jitters because the extra adrenaline helps me succeed.

HAPPY RUNNING,
Steph
Stroller Warriors Founder & Camp Lejeune Coordinator