A Runner’s Guide to Finding Flow, Focus, and Freedom on the Trail

How to Harness Mindfulness for Running Success

Photo by the author

My mind felt empty as I climbed the steep hill around 2 am. It was a warm night; the bright moon and star-filled sky provided enough light to see without a headlamp. A sense of calm and peace washed over me as I moved my exhausted body around another loop on the motocross track, accompanied by the songs of grasshoppers.

After running for almost 12 hours, I felt effortless focus and connection with my body and the trail. I was finally “in the zone.”

And I believe this experience of being “in the flow” for most of the 24-hour Mad Chicken Run ultramarathon ultimately allowed me to secure the win.

But I didn’t get in the zone by accident.

Instead, I applied the principles of mindfulness. I practiced present-moment awareness and non-judgemental acceptance to quiet the self-doubts and stay connected to my body, even in the most challenging moments.

But what exactly is mindfulness, and how can we, as runners, harness it to unlock our breakthrough performances?

What Is Mindfulness, and How Can It Improve Your Running?