see a real doctor and ignore all the other charlatans on LRC
see a real doctor and ignore all the other charlatans on LRC
I myself am having this same problem currently and for multiple years. I have worked with a sport psychologist in the past and to summarize the advice and things we worked on specifically for me was to disregard expectations to the best of my ability. This would include expectations from other people, loved ones, friends, parents, coaches. Find a way to shelve those expectations, regardless of how well intentioned they are. This is a selfish sport that is incredibly individualistic, they can't help you in a race. If you focus on yourself, because if you win on your own terms, they will most likely win.
The other advice in this thread is great. Definitely look into the visualization and relaxation suggested
As a non-doctor- these are minor panic episodes due to your expectation of a massive result versus a more mediocre (2 flat). Wipe the expectations, approach the race ready to compete and stay attached rather than chasing splits.
Before the race- what music are you listening to? What people do you surround yourself with?
Don't be 'fake tough' like some athletes can be. You don't have to look a million percent locked in. Stay loose, enjoy the moment.
On the line- unstick your tongue from the roof of your mouth, drop the shoulders, shake the arms and unclench your jaw. Be mindful of what muscles you are using.
Best of luck! This isn't uncommon man, you'll get through
BJB wrote:
Sounds like you having a bit of a panic attack. Tingling in the hands, the sensation that you are going to pass out are typical. The cramping in hands and arms is caused by hyperventilation.
Panic attacks are complex - but you can start by using relaxation techniques. If there is no underlaying phycological/trauma things going on they can be very successful. You can start by sitting in a quiet place and closing your eyes. Take some time to just relax and then visualize yourself calm and collected before the race and strong and powerful throughout the race. Acknowledge that it will be uncomfortable, but know that you have done the training to excel. See yourself succeeding. Run the race in head. Try and do this everyday - should only take 5 min or so. It helps to have a word or phrase you want to focus on and repeat it while you are visualizing. Maybe "strong and relaxed" or "close hard" or whatever you want to focus on
On the day of the race do this in the morning. In the hours leading up to the race relax and focus on your plan, remember your preparation, focus on how ready you are. Be excited to show how fit you are. If you feel yourself starting to get that panic try and stop yourself and reset. slow your breathing, repeat your phrase in your head.
Every elite runner works on visualization and relaxation. It works
As a doctor, this is a great post.
The hand thing has happened to me since hs. Hasn’t been as big of a problem in recent races, typically if I go out too fast my hands do the salt bae thing. Also wondering the cause