“Novice or Olympian, we all struggle with motivation sometimes. On dark, wet nights, when I really don’t feel like a run, I remind myself that my competitors will be out there doing their runs. I want that edge over them, and that’s all the motivation I need … To keep myself running well I often repeat to myself ‘strong and relaxed’ – this helps to distract me from the pain and fatigue.”
Liz Yelling, marathon
“When I’m pushing hard in a race and it’s hurting, I tell myself that if I am hurting, everybody else is hurting. The harder I hurt, the harder they hurt and the only way to win is to make it hurt.”
Steph Twell, marathon
“It’s important to train consistently and have a goal. I enjoy running with other athletes when I can. For a beginner, arranging to meet a fellow runner or group is a good way to make sure you don’t get lazy.”
Mo Farah, 5,000m
“Before a tough session, I listen to music to get me motivated. I try to enjoy how hard the training feels, and feel grateful that my body is in a good enough state to train hard. And in the scheme of things, the pain is short-lived.”
Jo Pavey, 5,000m and 10,000m
“When you’re tired, it’s easy to drift off and suddenly have run 20 seconds slower for that mile, so you need to stay focused. I count to myself to break down the miles, and stay in the moment. At marathon pace, if I count to 100 three times it’s about a mile.”
Paula Radcliffe, marathon
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