So here we are, just a few days before many of you will participate in your first ever triathlon. Some of you may be buzzing with happiness and excitement and others may be worrying (or a mixture of both) which I can completely relate to. I vividly remember the copious amounts of confusing emotions and waves of nervous energy in the lead up to my first event.
It can be the default setting of many of our minds to play out the potential negative experiences of doing something that removes you from your comfort zone. I feel the modern world has almost programmed us to believe in such a way. The thoughts that went through my head were like colliding bumper cars in an amusement arcade, each one as irrational as the next. This was simply a magnification of my general mindset and by challenging myself in such a way I was highlighting the weaknesses in my approach to my every day relationship with my mind.
During the height of my anxiety my mind would immediately play out the worst case scenario in every situation which often led me to simply not undertake the action. It controlled me and my behaviour and one of the most difficult things I ever had to do in my life was to re-frame my mindset and attempt to guide myself away from thinking like that all the time. I won’t lie, this took time and a habitual and consistent approach. For years I truly believed it would never change but I can say hand on my heart that now my mindset has polarised authentically to embracing challenges and accepting failures if they occur, but once I was able to learn from them.
I know many of you perhaps feel this way at the moment and it’s important for me to point out that on Saturday you will be among friends. People who truly understand and can relate in some way to each other. Use our shared community to fuel your energy, both your body and your mind. There is nothing that will happen this Saturday that we can’t help you with. The fact is myself and all the amazing crew who have dedicated so much time to make this a safe and fun event for all of you will be there at every junction, every turn, and at the finish line if you require us. If you get confused with the transition areas or at registration etc… we are aware of this and will help you.
We all experienced this too so please do not be afraid to ask for advice on the day. This is the very reason we decided to keep this event as a beginner’s triathlon and hopefully just the start for you, not perhaps just to do triathlon but for every other challenge life throws at you. This was the backbone and philosophy behind #Ironmind. It’s never been just about exercise, training etc… it’s about making you all realise that ye are all stronger and more resilient than sometimes you give yourself credit for.
So, a few last minute tips to keep you calm and focused.
- On a piece of paper tonight I want you to write down everything you think could go wrong on the day. Then I simply want you to rip that piece of paper into as many shreds as you can and put it into the bin where it belongs.
- Your language from here on in until Saturday (and hopefully beyond) doesn’t once promote negativity. Talk positively, lovingly and compassionately to yourself and about yourself, do not put yourself down or question how much training you have done, or feed any worries unnecessarily etc. There are tons of people in exactly the same boat, lean on them and support each other. Remember only positive self-talk from now on in, even if you don’t fully believe it.
- Visualise the outcome. Literally close your eyes and see yourself coming out of the water being greeted by family and friends, getting on the bike, the buzz and atmosphere and running over that finish line. The pure pride you will feel within yourself. This will calm the mind, and reduce cortisol level, hence allowing for higher energy levels and focus.
- The day before the race people always ask what should they should eat. It’s simple really. Do not change too much as your body may not be used to certain foods. The day before the event drink plenty of water – 2/4 litres, perhaps also take some electrolytes. Make sure your meals are carb heavy. Wholemeal pasta, brown rice, sweet potato etc…
- For the morning of the event, make sure to stay hydrated. For breakfast do not eat something that’s hard to digest. A full fry won’t sit well in your system. Porridge with banana and honey and a bagel perhaps. Just make sure it’s something you have eaten before and it hasn’t had a negative impact on you. Perhaps buy some rice cakes to snack on leading up to event in case get a little peckish and if there’s a long time between breakfast and the event.
- After the event, sit back, pat yourself on the back, have a big slice of cake and a cuppa, a beer or glass of wine, industrial size tolberone, or whatever makes you happy. You deserve to celebrate. Allow yourself to be proud.
For what it’s worth I and all of the brilliant team who have worked so hard to make this happen for you cannot wait to see you all on Saturday. I have read the stories and the social media posts of many of the journeys you have all gone on to get here. The reasons you are doing it, who you are doing it for, and what it means to you. This was born out of the documentary “Ironmind” where four incredible people went on that same journey and inspired many of you guys to join them. All I ask is for you to enjoy the day, embrace it, do not fear it. Signing up and getting here is the real achievement. Remember enjoy the journey, not just the destination.
See ye all Saturday bright and early.
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