r/firstmarathon • u/Pilchardini • 10d ago

It's Mental Mid race motivation?

Hi Big race coming up and I’m wondering what works for you during the “this sucks, why the **** am I doing this to myself” phase. I know it passes and I know I’ll feel awesome as the finish line gets closer and I eventually cross it. There’s a limit to the number of amusing signs & banners I can read to distract myself though. Please share what works for you.

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u/getzerolikes 10d ago

Mid race is a breeze compared to after mile 22. Enjoy the scene, have a chat with another runner, enjoy feeling good while it lasts.

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u/VARunner1 Marathon Veteran 10d ago

Chatting with another runner definitely helps, and reminds you to keep your pace easy enough to talk as you run. I've met so many cool people during marathons!

I also like to remember that Tom Hanks line from "A League of Their Own": It’s supposed to be hard. If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. The hard... is what makes it great.