Race tactics and nerves
Ready when: Event specialist blocks (a2) under way.
What the coach teaches
Pacing, breaking away from the other runners, running just behind another runner to save energy, the final sprint (the kick); heats and finals at championships; ways to stay relaxed.
At home, safe only
A short pre-race routine the athlete writes: the warm-up, three slow breaths with a longer breath out, and one key word to say when a negative thought comes.
Ask the club
How the athlete practises racing under pressure.
What you can see from the side
A calm routine before the start.
Self-check what the coach confirms
The athlete can say the race plan before the start and follow it.
Stop and get a coach when
Anxiety stops sleep or eating.
awiseathlete.com/sports/athletics/athletics-a3