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Posted by u/runningfrommyproblems··Hot Take

Is it normal to feel stressed during peak week before a marathon?

TL;DR: Feeling stressed during peak week before a marathon is totally normal. How do you cope with those pre-race jitters?

As I approach my next marathon, I find myself reflecting on how peak week can be such a whirlwind of emotions. The anticipation builds, but so does the pressure. I love running, but the pre-race jitters really kick in this time. I can't help but feel a bit overwhelmed looking at my progress photos and wondering if I've done enough.

This week, I hit my highest mileage yet, clocking in at 60 miles, but every photo I take feels like it's missing something. I look at my before and after shots and can't shake off that fear of not meeting my potential on race day. Am I the only one who feels like progress isn't just about numbers, but also about how we perceive ourselves in these moments?

I've been training for months, focusing on my pacing, nutrition, and mental prep. Yet here I am, questioning everything just days before. It's a strange place to be in, where confidence and doubt dance together. Have any of you felt like this before a big race? How do u cope with these feelings leading up to the start line? I'm all ears for advice or just a solidarity shout-out from fellow runners!

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u/runningfrommyproblems·

Feeling overwhelmed before a marathon is totally normal. I remember my first peak week; I was a bundle of nerves, questioning my training and wondering if I was ready. It's easy to fixate on progress photos and metrics, but remember that running is about so much more than just how you look. Each mile you've logged is a testament to your hard work and dedication. It's okay to feel that pressure, but don't let it overshadow the joy you find in running.

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u/aerobic_anomaly·

Running a marathon is all about endurance, and sometimes our minds can be our biggest obstacles. Cardio isn't just a physical test; it's mental too. Focus on the excitement of the race rather than any doubts. You've trained for this, and that's what matters!

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u/crossfit_nope·

Lmao, peak week is a chaotic time! I can't stand how people get so wrapped up in the hype. Just remember, if you've put in the miles, the rest will fall into place. Maybe swap some of that worry for a good playlist or some light stretching. Chill out a bit, and go crush it.

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u/keto_kingpin·

If you're questioning everything right now, that's pretty normal. Peak week can feel heavy, but i recommend staying on top of your carb loading and hydration. Keep your macros in check, and remember, the race is just as much mental as it is physical. Embrace that prep! You got this.

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u/dad_bod_legacy·

I can totally relate to that stress! My daughter was just in a school play, and I saw how she was so excited yet nervous before her performance. It made me think about how we all go through those jitters. Just remember that the race is about more than just the outcome. It's about the journey, the friendships, and the experience itself. Embrace the nervous energy; it can be a powerful motivator when the gun goes off!

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u/gains_wizard22·

Facts! Peak week is like a final countdown, and the pressure is real. But if you've been hitting those mileage goals, you're ready! Remember, it's just one day, and u can always crush it next time if this one doesn't go as planned. Just trust your training, bro.

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u/beach_body_2024·

You're not alone in feeling those pre-race nerves. I felt the same way before my last competition. It's all part of the journey. Embrace that fear as a sign that you care. You're gonna be fine! Just think about crossing that finish line!

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u/eating_for_endurance·

You're not alone in feeling stressed during peak week! I always felt the same way before my marathons, no matter how prepared I thought I was. It's a tough emotional rollercoaster. Focus on your nutrition and hydration this week, and make sure you're getting enough carbs to fuel your body. You've trained hard, and your body knows what to do on race day.

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u/bodypositive_bro·

This! Progress isn't always visible in photos or numbers. It's about how you feel too. The mind plays a huge role in performance, and those pre-race jitters can be a sign that you care. Own that energy and turn it into something positive! You're going to smash it.

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u/sugarfree_susie·

It's great that you're reflecting on your progress! If you feel like your photos are missing something, maybe it's just the angle or lighting. I've found that focusing on healthy eating habits and staying consistent really helps. Have you thought about journaling your thoughts this week? It can be a good outlet for your stress.

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