Can Mindfulness Make You a Better Runner? | s5/e14 | The Running Explained Podcast

Running is often described as a mental sport, and if you’ve ever dealt with race-day nerves, felt like your performance was plateauing, or just couldn’t shake negative self-talk, you know how much your mindset can make or break a run. In this solo episode, Coach Elisabeth explores the science and practice of mindfulness in running, breaking down how intentional mental training can boost performance, emotional resilience, and even your love for the sport. She shares real-world strategies like breathwork, “gratitude runs,” and reframing tough thoughts to help runners shift their mindset, build confidence, and find joy on the run again. This one’s for you if: ✅ You struggle with performance anxiety or mental fatigue ✅ You feel stuck despite physical training ✅ You want tools to calm your mind and focus better ✅ You’re looking to enjoy running more, not just “grind” through it 💥 Whether you're chasing a PR or rebuilding your relationship with running, this episode will shift how you think about training. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Announcements 06:09 Mindfulness & Long-Distance Runners 14:57 Breaking Down the Mindfulness Study 32:51 Neuroplasticity and Our Mental State 37:25 The Impact of Mental Fatigue on Performance 44:42 Emotional Resilience 48:52 Mental Skills & Mindset Tips 58:20 Reflecting Mindfully on Performance 🔗Links & Resources 🌐 Website: http://www.RunningExplained.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/runningexplained/ 🎧 More Podcast Episodes: http://runningexplained.co/podcast 🎁 Use code RUNEXP at checkout for a free watch band when you buy yours: http://www.coros.com 👟Coaching Services 🏃1:1 Coaching: https://www.runningexplained.com/runcoaching 👫Group Coaching: https://www.runningexplained.com/groupcoaching ✨ Exclusive Content & Support 🎙️ Bonus episodes & behind-the-scenes: https://www.patreon.com/runningexplained 📬 Join The Weekly Stride newsletter: https://www.runningexplained.com/newsletter 🏅Road to Race Day: Philadelphia: https://www.runningexplained.com/roadtoraceday