I hate when it shows up…

That miserable feeling standing at a starting line feeling like you don’t belong. That for some reason your mind tells you that you’re not worthy of being here…

I remember one of my first marathons picking up my race packet and looking around intimidated. My mind was racing: “These people look athletic! - I don’t look like that - What are you doing here!?”

I’d have a sinking feeling – the self-critic came out whips and all.

Ultrarunning isn’t just a test of physical endurance it’s a crucible for emotional resilience. Whether you’re grinding up Hope Pass at Leadville, managing stomach issues at Foresthill at Western States, or riding the mental rollercoaster of the Moab 240, your ability to regulate emotions becomes as important as your training plan.  Research increasingly shows that how ultra runners manage their feelings mid-race can influence performance, recovery, and mental health. Here’s a look at the science and why an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)-based mindset can help.

I was laughing and giggling at the ridiculousness of my situation. I’ve come eight-one miles. and for the most part I felt fine, I was hydrated, fueled well, I felt comfortable in the heat and sun, I felt comfortable in the cold and dark…but my calves were tight, painful knots of searing hate. Straightening my legs required maximum effort and four-letter words.