Physically Tired, Mentally Strong

During a cross country race, a runner often reaches an exasperating point when their body feels as though it has hit a brick wall. The runner's energy and ability to push the pace is depleted. Once physical ability seems to disappear, the only thing left to get a runner through a race is their mental strength. Cross country is a sport that consists of various workouts including speed, distance, tempo and fartlek, a run which involves a series of timed speed intervals. Apart from running, workouts consist of abdominal and weight lifting exercises. These forms of training build a runner's endurance and boost their ability to endure long distance runs. After running cross country for three years, I have experienced many workouts and races. Through these experiences, I have discovered that being a successful runner in cross country requires teamwork and will power making it more of a mental than physical sport.

During a race or practice, it is difficult to push through the pain and exhaustion. The runner then has to rely on their mental strength. Teamwork builds mental strength. Running with a team helps a runner stay mentally focused and motivated. Having a teammate to run alongside a runner reminds the runner of the team that is relying on him to do his best. For example, if one team member begins to step up the pace and runs well, other teammates will follow the lead. Running with a team rather than running individually makes racing more rewarding. Proof that mental strength comes from teamwork can be found within the Wando cross country team of which I am a member. This year we were the state champions. Although this significant achievement shows that the team has physical strength, teamwork played a major role. Head coach of the Wando girls cross country team stated her highlight of the season, "I think more than anything, to me, it was them being a team. They got along, they supported each other, they encouraged each other and I think that you can't have a true team unless all those elements are there" (Tribal Tribune 23). The root of our successful season is teamwork. Everyone recognizes that each runner is equally as important as our fastest and continues to push and encourage each other mentally.

When a runner is struggling individually, they can use an inner mental strength called will power. This mental aspect is used in practice as well as in races. For example, sometimes at practice, a runner may not feel like having the desire to run or finish a tough workout. They may be tired from a long day at school, or from lack of rest due to long nights of studying. It takes will power to do the grueling work outs and then run three or four miles despite weather conditions. During workouts and especially during races, my coach suggests using a power word or mantra during times when I do not feel well physically and cannot get motivated mentally. Olympic runner,