Training for a race is usually a time-consuming, painful, and can’t-wait-until-this-is-over experience. Once you start to taper, you realize that the training routine is nearing the finish line. The excitement of the race will come and go and suddenly you’re left wondering what’s next. We will cover a few ways to get through this period and get you ready for the next thing.
Tapering to the Finish Line
The period of tapering is when you reduce your mileage in preparation for the race. The week leading up to the race can be the most difficult in terms of adjustment. It’s common to have mixed emotions leading up to the race. Make sure you properly cut back on your mileage and reduce the temptation to run any further.
The finish line of training can seem to leave a void in your schedule. Those early mornings, sacrificing late nights, and countless miles no longer consume your goal to cross the finish line. Here are a few ideas to help with the transition from training, to race, and to not training:
- Reflect on your progress: I’m big into reflection and commonly have brought it up in other posts. Reflection is a great way to think through what went well and what you can improve the next time you train. Focusing on what went well can ensure you repeat that activity and thinking about what did not go well can help you improve the next time.
- Rest and Recover: I usually minimize my training the week of a big run. Instead of training harder, I cut back and let my body heal in preparation for a race. Focusing on other activities will keep the mind busy up until race time.
- Set your after race goal: If you can’t stand that void feeling, you can always start thinking about the next race. If you are someone that needs to start planning far in advance or always like to have the next goal planned out, this could really help. Where do you want to run? What if you don’t hit your goal in this upcoming race? This is also another way to distract the mind.
- Consider alternative workouts: I’m not a fan of deviating from a training program, but if you have to get out and do something the week of a race, consider cross-training or just walking. Either of these activities can make you feel like you are still being active and can help you get to the race. Don’t over do it! Injury is the last thing you want to do!
Crossing the Line
We covered a few ideas to help you get through that taper week. It’s all about preparing yourself for the upcoming race by distracting your mind. Leading up to race day, visual how you will cross the finish line, achieve that PR, and see the celebration as you receive you medal. Follow your training program or if you have to find a minimal activity that won’t be a major disruption for your training. It’s all about having a strong mind going into race day. Good luck!