The Running Explained Podcast

s5/e14 Can Mindfulness Make You A Better Runner?

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May 15, 2025
Explore how mindfulness can transform your running! Discover insights from a fascinating study linking mental training to better performance. Learn how mindfulness rewires your brain to enhance focus and emotional resilience. Find out practical techniques you can apply—no chanting required—to conquer anxiety and elevate your running experience. Unravel the flow state and understand its impact on performance, making this valuable for runners of all levels. It's time to unlock the full potential of your mind while you run!
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INSIGHT

Mindfulness vs Traditional Psychology

  • Mindfulness trains nonjudgmental awareness, helping athletes focus on task-relevant cues and detach from distracting thoughts.
  • Suppressing negative thoughts paradoxically worsens anxiety, unlike mindfulness which enhances focus.
ANECDOTE

Dehydration Wrecked Mental Strength

  • During a dehydrated half marathon, Coach Elizabeth's mental strength crumbled after an overwhelming Gatorade experience at mile 8.
  • Her mental collapse worsened the race despite physical capability, highlighting mind-body interplay.
INSIGHT

Mindfulness Boosts Runner Psychology

  • Six weeks of mindfulness training improved runners’ flow state frequency, anxiety levels, focus, emotional regulation, and confidence.
  • Mental training alone delivered significant psychological gains without changes to physical training.
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