Every runner has had those days. The key is to get through it and finish up your run. Believe it or not – sometimes running is more mental than physical.

So, how do you get a little extra motivational push to get through your run? Try positive affirmations for runners! Affirmations are defined as something declared to be true; a positive statement or judgment. Affirmations are powerful if you are feeding your mind positive statements. I am a firm believer in positive in all areas of my life. In my personal life – my business life – and my running life.

A positive, motivational energetic affirmation can help you get rid of the negative self-talk that may happen on a hard run. You know the negative self-talk: “I’ll never make it up that hill”, “I just can’t run anymore”, etc. More positive self-talk will help your self-confidence – and so will you.

Think of a one line statement that you can say to yourself over and over when you need that little extra push. Two of my favorites are: “I am a strong and healthy runner” and “I run all distances with ease”.

Here are a few more examples of some great running affirmations:

• My body is a finely tuned machine.
• I run through the pain straight to the gain.
• A great runner lives within me.
• I am filled with energy.
• I love running hills.
• I always finish strong.
• I am keeping up a strong pace.

Saying something positive to yourself over and over will help you get through that rough spot or up that big hill. You know – like the little engine that could – but instead of starting with “I think I can” – say “I know I can”!