I don’t know what it is, but for some reason, I get nervous before my long runs.

The nervousness sets in around mid-week, usually after I finish my third (or….second….) training run of the week and the only run I have left is my long run.

It’s not that I mind long runs once I’m actually doing them (well, maybe the last 3 miles of them) but I just build them up in my head to be this huge big deal. Aka: I psych myself out.

When I laced my shoes up before my long run this weekend, I felt like I was gearing up for battle.

Take a pic of me before my scary long run, Tuna!

What am I scared of?

I’m scared of walking. I’m scared of failing and not being able to finish the run. If I really think about it, I have to ask myself – why am I so scared? What is the worst that will happen?

I’ll have to walk. Or I won’t be able to finish a run. Big deal. That doesn’t make me a terrible person or a failure. But that hasn’t even happened yet. The thought of stopping doesn’t even cross my mind during the run.

It must be all in my head, man.

I was glad I finished this weekend’s run strong (unlike 2 weeks ago) and felt really good!

Please ignore the random ass 0.00 distances. Still gettin’ used to my Garmin!

I tried using some gel fuel for the first time at mile 6, and it really helped.

I definitely felt stronger and less fatigued. It tasted pretty damn disgusting though. I’m going to try a few different flavors (I tried strawberry) before I completely rule out gel. I might be a shotbloks girl.

Only three more long runs to complete before the Shamrock Half! Eek!

Do you get pre-long run jitters?

Please tell me if you have any tricks or tips to prevent dreading your long runs!