How can I control my race day nerves?
Feeling nervous prior to a race is perfectly natural and affects even the most experienced elite runners. The trick to controlling pre-race anxiety is to find a routine that works for you. Many runners find that listening to music during their warm up provides a welcome distraction to any negative thoughts or feelings of self-doubt that may be creeping in.
You may also find it helpful to engage in some deep breathing techniques prior to the start that can help to dissipate any physical and mental feelings of anxiety. Try to avoid any unnecessary stress on race day by checking fundamental details such as transport and parking arrangements and number and timing chip collection beforehand.
Louise has been running for over 20 years, with the last 16 of those at International level. She has represented Grea...