Running affirmations are a simple, yet surprisingly powerful, way to take your running to the next level. Not only do they help improve mental strength and confidence, but they might actually be able to help improve your physical endurance and strength as well.
What are running affirmations?
Simply put, running affirmations are statements repeated either out loud, in the mind, or through writing. The repetition of these positive statements helps solidify the thoughts in the subconscious, so eventually they either become or are believed to be true.
For example, an affirmation such as “I am strong” might not necessarily be true when you first begin, but over time, the repetition helps your body believe that it is fact.
As our subconscious mind begins to believe these statements, we are much more likely to turn them into a reality. Overtime, these positive thoughts will come to replace negative ones.
How to use affirmations for runners?
Runners use affirmations in different ways, but most find them helpful during a training season when on the run. The affirmation doesn’t have to be true at the time you say it, but you have to believe that it’s possible in order for it to be most effective.
To begin, choose 1-5 affirmations that you like. Write them down, memorize them, or put them somewhere that you’ll see frequently. Begin by saying them to yourself every time you head out for a run.
With consistency, it will soon become a habit to speak these affirmations as you are running. While you run, take time to really dig into the affirmations and visualize them – especially when you are struggling.
30 Running Affirmations for Training
One of the most beneficial ways to use running affirmations is to incorporate them throughout training. Including affirmations on every run – regardless of whether it’s an easy run or hard workout, long or short run – will become a habit over time.
By the time race day arrives, you’ll likely have come to believe and embody many of the running affirmations. When you hit a wall or face a battle during the race, you’ll automatically refer back to these positive thoughts.
Here are a few running affirmations to choose from as you seek to find some most relevant to your training.
- I can do hard things
- Pain is temporary
- I am strong
- I am healthy
- I take care of my body
- I will do my best today
- I work hard to achieve my goals
- I am grateful
- I have what it takes
- I believe in myself
- I accept this challenge
- I am worthy
- I am proud of myself
- Nothing will stop me
- I will overcome
- I am powerful
- I deserve to be here
- I honor my body
- I rise above my doubts
- I conquer my fears
- This is my time
- I believe in miracles
- I have earned this
- I am prepared
- I appreciate each run
- I get to run
- I have everything I need
- My goals are worth pursuing
- I am ready to work
- I will overcome
20 Affirmations for Runners on Race Day
Running affirmations mean a great deal on race day. Many runners find themselves dealing with self-doubt as the nerves set in before their goal race. These running affirmations will help change those thoughts of doubt into words of self-confidence.
When things inevitably get challenging during your goal race, these affirmations for runners provide familiar words to fall back on. Speaking positive phrases to yourself will help you overcome even the most surprising challenges. Here are some affirmations to use on race day.
- I am brave
- I am prepared
- I am an example for others
- Failure fuels achievement
- I am a champion
- I have already won
- This is my time
- I am strong and focused
- Pain is temporary
- I can do hard things
- Nothing worth having comes easy
- I am grateful for this opportunity
- I am thankful for my body
- I am joyful
- My body is ready
- Nothing can stop me
- I love to run
- I was born for this
- I am ready to conquer
- I am worth it
How to Create Your Own Running Affirmations
Many runners find that affirmations that are relevant to their specific fears, goals and journeys have the most meaning and power behind them. If you can’t find a running affirmation that speaks to your specific circumstance, creating your own is very powerful. Here’s how to do it.
- Write down the specific goals you are aiming for as well as any doubts or obstacles you might face in your training
- See if you can summarize your thoughts in a few words or feelings
- Narrow these into a single phrase in the present tense, such as one beginning with “I am” or “my body is” etc.
- The phrase doesn’t have to be true in the moment, but you have to believe it is possible
- Speak in present tense, as if it is already happening
- Write down your affirmation(s)
- Repeat them at a consistent time each day, such as first thing in the morning or at the start of a run
- Visualize what you are saying
- Believe in yourself
Adding affirmations to your running routine is a simple change that can have a profound impact on your training and results. Most runners who begin using affirmations consistently are surprised to discover how many changes they see in their physical and mental health as a result – both in running and in every day life.
Try adding some of these running affirmations to your training to see just how powerful they can be. You won’t regret it!