Overcoming Race Nerves

So you have put all the hard work during training and you have you event coming up. But, you are overwhelmed by anxiety and apprehension about the event. Race nerves are normal. It's good to do things that get us out of our comfort zone and the feeling when we finish will be phenomenal.

Whilst nerves are a part of life there are some things that we can do and have a few mental health check ins to help ease our nerves.

The week prior to the event

Do as much as possible ahead of time, so you can be prepared before the nerves really start kicking in.

• Revise the course. Check on things you should be looking out for such as big climbs and food stops. This way you can mentally rehearse the event and be prepared for what's to come. Then you won't have so much of the fear of the unknown swirling around in your head.

• Have a good nutritional strategy set out. Whether you have great a event or bad one, really can depend on how you tackle it with your nutrition. Come prepared with your own food and don't solely rely on the food stops. Note down what you need to eat, you should be eating every 30-40mins. We prepared with food that you are used to.

• Write a packing list and be prepared for all weathers. We know we can't rely of the weather forecast, so be mentally and physically prepared for anything.

• If you are traveling up before the event check what conveniences and available to you. In terms of restaurants, shops to buy food.

• Perhaps go see a mechanic to check your bike over if it's been a while, so you don't have to deal with anything at the last minute.

The day before the event

The last thing you want is any last minute stresses. Having everything prepared should help you with a good nights sleep.

• Have all your kit ready and laid out so no morning stress of trying to find anything.

• Have your food and drinks prepared for the day.

• Check what time you need to leave to get there on time.

• Get some carbs in to give you some reserves for the event.

On event day

Your positive mindset is going to make it a great day

• Remind yourself you have trained for this.

• Take each km as it comes.

• Eat and drink regularly.

• Just enjoy and be prepared to suffer.

• Visualise getting through the finish line.

Once it's all over and at some points you were probably questioning life choices, you will probably want to do it all again, so start looking for your next challenge.

If you want the support of a coach so that when you get to the start line you know you are more prepared then ever Book a free discovery Call