She Strengthens

The Unspoken Struggle of Athletes: Coping with Post-Race Emotions

As I sat with my friend, tears streaming down my face, I couldn’t help but wonder: was I alone in feeling this way? The summer had been brutal, and my first Ironman experience was nothing short of disastrous. The swim portion was cancelled due to unsafe water conditions, leaving me with a sense of emptiness and uncertainty.

The Highs and Lows of Competition

I had dedicated myself to training, pouring my heart and soul into every workout. I hired a coach, found a supportive group of training partners, and even invested in a top-of-the-line bike. But despite my best efforts, the Ironman gods had other plans. Crossing the finish line felt more like a chore than a triumph.

A Universal Experience

As I struggled to come to terms with my emotions, I discovered I wasn’t alone. Many athletes experience a post-race low, a feeling of sadness and disorientation that can be overwhelming. According to Dr. Jeff Brown, author of The Runner’s Brain, this phenomenon is more common than we think. Our brains and bodies are wired to respond to the routine and goals of training, and when that structure is removed, we can feel lost and unmotivated.

The Science Behind the Struggle

Ben Oliva, a mental performance coach, explains that the difference between normal sadness and the post-race low lies in the loss of energy and motivation. When we’re training for a race, we wake up every day with a sense of purpose, and that energy can be addictive. Without it, we can feel flat and uninspired.

Finding Solace in Community

After polling my friends, I realized I wasn’t the only one who had experienced dark thoughts post-race. Runners Chris Lopez and Molly Kreter shared their own struggles, from feelings of underperformance to disappointment and frustration. It was comforting to know I wasn’t alone, and that others had navigated these emotions before.

Coping Strategies for the Post-Race Blues

So, how do we overcome the post-race low? Oliva recommends making a transition plan to recovery, just as we would prep for the race itself. By focusing on the process rather than the outcome, we can find joy in the journey and appreciate the experience. Other strategies include treating the race as a learning experience, staying connected with training partners, and embracing other activities and interests.

Finding My Way Again

After weeks of struggling, I finally found my footing again. I traveled with friends to run the Philadelphia Marathon, and it was more of a road trip than a race weekend. We laughed, joked, and goofed off, and I ran my 11th marathon feeling relaxed and confident. It was a reminder that endurance racing is about the journey, not just the destination. The friends I’ve made along the way, the crazy endorphins, and the sense of accomplishment make it all worthwhile.