Accentuate the Positive

We all know the classic prescription for success in endurance running - a solid aerobic base through mileage, plus speed training, hill work, flexibilty, strength conditioning and a nutritionally sound diet.

The word 'negative' should not exist in your vocabulary. Negative thoughts are useless thoughts. The power of positive thinking can play a key role in running. If a negative situation arises, refuse to dwell on it. It is too draining and eventually self-defeating. Train yourself to allow negative thoughts and emotions to pass you by so that you can accentuate the positives in your life and running.

Here are some suggestions:

• Don't just tell yourself - believe you are going to improve.
• Move yourself mentally from your present state to a future achievement level in a series of achievable, continuous steps. Be realistic.
• Once things are going well, stick with it and consolidate.
• Set a plan to link it all together. Translate your thoughts into goals and write down your training paths towards them.

Positive thinking is not difficult if you erase the word 'negative' from your life.