Why mental strength matters more than you think: learn strategies to override mental limits

In this episode of Your Running Coach with GMacSpurr podcast, Coach G unpacks the challenge of mental fatigue in running. That moment when your brain screams “stop” even though your body still has energy left. She explains why awareness of these thought patterns is a powerful first step and breaks down the 3 truths of mental fatigue, including the reminder that your brain’s number one job is to keep you safe. But safe doesn’t always mean stopping. This episode is for you if you want to learn how to build mental strength in running.

Coach G explains how to build trust in your body. She shares strategies to override mental limits, and how to expand your brain’s capacity over time. With practical tools like mantras, journaling, and documenting past successes, plus the importance of anchoring into your powerful “why,” this episode will help you train your mind to keep going when things get tough.

Listen to the episode right here, and then read on for some great journal prompts. These will help you build resilience, proving that sometimes the strongest muscle you train is your mindset. And why not check out the Runner Mindset Workshop recording at the end of this blog. This will help you understand – and update – what you are telling yourself about you as a runner.

Enjoyed this episode? Share it with a running friend who needs encouragement, and don’t forget to subscribe to Your Running Coach with GMacSpurr podcast for more running mindset tips so that you don’t miss an episode.
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How to build mental strength in running: journal prompts

Here are some powerful journal prompts to help you build resilience as a runner:

• When has my brain told me to stop but I kept going anyway? What did I learn – about my thoughts, about my actions?
• What mantra or phrase feels powerful for me when things get mentally hard?
• How can I practice small doses of discomfort in training so race day feels familiar?

After you’ve used these prompts to delve deeper, come over to the Your Running Coach with GMacSpurr community to continue the conversation.

Here is a fantastic and free Runner Mindset Workshop to help you reclaim your runner story and spot the mindset stories that are holding you back.