Several weeks ago I finished one of the countries hardest 100 mile races - the Bighorn 100 in the Bighorn Mountains of Wyoming. The feeling I had in this race was one like no other. A lot had to do with my mindset and how I practiced it. (Photo Courtesy of Mile 90 Photography.)

Having a higher level of perceived exertion during long term stressors is your bodies way of protecting itself. It’s telling you to take care of yourself and slow down. It’s not saying stop. It’s saying you have a limited reserve. Let’s preserve it for when we need it most.

While marathons in general don’t pull punches, this one in particular can be pretty sharp. The race starts in downtown Leadville and goes up to 13000’ at Mosquito Pass, turns around and goes up and down a few more times before a long steep downhill back into town. It is one that gets uncomfortable fast especially if you haven’t been acclimatized to the altitude. That being said one of the number one lessons as an endurance athlete - Embrace and Prepare for Discomfort.