A running mantra can be used like a kick in the butt on tough stretches of your run. Think of it as a jet pack. Personally, I tell myself to, "Dig Deep and Power Through!" A running mantra is personal, so I don't expect this to work for you, but it works for me. On tough uphill climbs I tell myself to "Dig Deep." Then, once I reach the top of the hill I urge myself to "Power Through." Why in this order you ask?
Currently, I am focusing on maintaining my target pace on uphill ascents and picking it up ever so slightly once I reach level ground. This tactic should improve my overall time if executed properly. Think about it. Why should I waste energy on a big hill? Half a mile uphill counts the same as half a mile of flat terrain. Thus, I should exert just enough effort to maintain my target pace and use any extra energy on the flat or nearly flat portions of my run.
Understand that running mantras can be used in any way that motivates you. The only real advice I have for you is to keep it simple. Anything more than a short phrase is too much. For example, it would be hard to motivate myself with a phrase such as, "Dig deep within yourself on this hill and power through once you reach the flat terrain at the top." Thus, you must first figure out what you hope to achieve with this running mantra. Then, create a sentence that can be shortened into a 4 or 5 word phrase that is easily repeatable. Got it?
Now go create your own personal running mantra. Then, come back and share it with me and my readers.
Below are a few links pertaining to running mantras that you may find to be of interest:
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