Science of Running Mindset Matters: Training the Mind for Peak Race Day Performance
Jan 21, 2026
They explore shifting athletes from fixed to growth mindsets and building training cultures that reward calculated risk. They describe using workouts with uncertainty and visualization to rehearse race scenarios. Practical drills for racing skills, mantras and cues to stack evidence, and strategies to tune attention and manage pain are also discussed.
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Growth Mindset Opens Paths
- A growth mindset opens realistic paths for improvement while a fixed mindset narrows options and fosters avoidance.
- Steve Magness notes that believing traits can improve enables risk-taking and sustained progress.
Occasionally Push Beyond Safe Limits
- Encourage athletes to take calculated risks in training and races to discover limits and potential improvements.
- Steve Magness advises occasionally pushing beyond safe limits to find true capacity and growth.
Use Small Risks To Build Confidence
- Shift fixed-mindset athletes gradually by offering realistic, small 'degrees of separation' from current ability.
- John Marcus recommends baby risks with clear support so confidence and daring grow incrementally.