Happy Friday! We made it! Congrats! Is it just me or did this week go by incredibly slowly? Also I felt like it was an 'extra caffeine' type of week where just one cup of coffee didn't cut it. Oh well. It's a moot point now since it's officially the weekend. I'm not really sure what we'll be doing this weekend, but maybe if the weather cooperates we'll get to get out on the lake with our kayaks! Anyone racing this weekend?! GOOD LUCK!

I wanted to share with you some of my favorite tips and tricks to conquer a long run when you're mentally not feeling it (or maybe you're trying a farther distance than you ever have before). I know that mentally preparing myself to smash my first 20-mile long run was just as important as physically being ready for it as well! 

• Envision yourself conquering that distance. I remember falling asleep at night seeing myself (in my mind) hitting my paces and not stopping during my entire run. I would do this every night throughout the week before my Saturday morning long run. 
• Try to split-up the run into segments. This really helped me if I was trying a new-to-me pace or distance. It also helped get me excited for trying something new!
• Create a new playlist. I read somewhere that after listening to a playlist for 3-4 times your body becomes accustomed to it, so it's important to switch up the songs. Plus I always get pretty pumped when I remember that I have a new playlist to listen to (#nerdalert)
• Try out your race day outfit (or a new piece of gear or nutrition/hydration strategy): Sometimes it's as simple as switching up something small that will help you not only get excited for race day and to begin your run, but that excitement may just carry you through the entire run!
• Make a list of potential people you wish you were running with. I like to do this when things get tough to get my mind off the struggle- Sometimes I wish I were running with Shalene or Obama or Oprah and try to conjure up topics I'd discuss with them. It may sound weird, but it really helps!
• Try a loop-course or out-and-back. I sometimes really love a loop course for a long run because I can stash my hydration and fuel and not have to carry it. Plus, it mentally gives me confidence knowing that I've previously already conquered it. An out-and-back course is great because on the way out you get a preview of what you'll run back by on your way to the finish. 

What type of mental tricks or tips do you have to get through a long run?

Coffee- yay or nay?

Who's one person you'd really like to run with?