In this powerful episode of Your Running Coach with GMacSpurr, Coach G challenges a belief many runners silently carry: that slowing down means you’re failing

In a culture that glorifies speed and constant performance, it’s easy to internalize the idea that slowing down is bad. But that mindset can be damaging to both your progress and your passion.

Coach G unpacks why embracing slower runs is not only okay but essential for long-term growth, recovery, and enjoyment. She explores the hidden benefits of slowing down, from reducing burnout and injury risk to building lasting mental resilience.

Listen to the episode right here, and then read on for some great journal prompts. These will help you detach your self-worth from your pace and reconnect with the reason you started running in the first place. 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 by GMacSpurr podcast for more running mindset tips so that you don’t miss an episode.
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[Apple Podcasts Link]
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Slow Down: Journal Prompts

Once you have listened to this episode, here are a few journal prompts. These will help you explore the truth behind that inner voice saying slowing down is wrong:

• What beliefs do I hold about what it means to be a “good” runner? Or “fast runner”?
• What comes up for me emotionally when I choose to run slower?
• Have I ever experienced a benefit – physical or emotional – after intentionally slowing down?
• What would it feel like to release the need to “prove” myself every time I run?

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.