Just last week, while running on the trail with Tony, we
talked about motivational strategies that were meant to improve running
ability. The following are ideas that I’ve used over the years, my friends have
used or I have observed. Some might call it magical thinking.
We can call the strategies an affirmation. For example, when
I ran the Western States 100 and I was simply tired and exhausted, at times I
said to myself “I can.” That expression was positive self-talk and used to
facilitate and help me to keep going and continue running. Well, I did complete
the run, but I don’t know for sure whether or not that affirmation was the sole
reason for my success. The dictionary defines affirmation, as the assertion
that something is true. I wouldn’t hesitate to give that advice to anyone.
However, it’s an interesting research question.
In medicine, placebos are used and the dictionary defines
placebo as a medicine given merely to please the patient. I can think of a few
research examples by Helen Langer. In her research, Dr. Langer told hotel
workers that cleaning rooms was exercise. The women in the study, lost weight,
as well as having better BMI scores. In another study, she had eight men in
their 70s stay in a decorated 1959 style facility with black-and-white
televisions, Perry Como, and Frank Sinatra records, etc. for five days. At the
end of five days, these men had lower blood pressure scores and walked more effortlessly
likely the way they did in 1959.
I bought a pair of compression socks that are supposedly
beneficial and therapeutic to assist in my running. The first time that I wore
the socks, I thought they helped. I see many people wearing them during running
events, but I can’t say whether or not they work. I also make a morning smoothie
after first being introduced to it by my ride and tie and running partner
friend Jonathan Jordan. I have a professional blender and put in many fruits,
vegetables, nuts, etc. I even add Green Vibrance for additional nutritional
benefits. Just think of all the nutritional bars, gels available on the market
designed to give you that extra. Heck, you can get a five hour energy drink.
That might be great for a trail ultramarathon.
The running shoe manufacturers have developed all types of
running shoes designed to give you that edge. Currently I use Brooks as the
shoe of my choice. Tony has gone to a shoe that he claims reduces his painful
feet after a run. He also has special socks that he uses for races. I prefer
tights and Tony wears shorts.
Watching baseball, Johnny Gomes comes to mind. He steps in
the batter’s box. Gomes adjusts his gloves as well as his batting helmet (2-3
times) prior to every pitch. Sometimes it looks as if the batting helmet
adjustment covers his eyes even though I know it doesn’t. He’s not the only one
who has a pattern of behaviors before every pitch. They all seem to have their
style.
A number of years ago, I got it in my head that I had to
total about 50 miles or more of running a week. That number could be
accomplished over seven days, six days, five days or whatever. I was not stuck
on the number of running days per week, but only stuck on the number of total
miles. Well I’m still continuing that behavior. Some might say that I’m nuts,
superstitious, or I even use those numbers as placebos.
Affirmations (the assertion that something is true),
placebos, superstitious behavior (a belief entertained, regardless of reason or
knowledge), self-deception (deceiving oneself), or even rationalization (justifying
the behavior after it happens), all have one thing in common, in that they’re
not based on scientific proof, reason or knowledge. So we can all fool
ourselves in regards to our behavior or the behavior of others. However,
individuals that use the strategies have faith in them. And more than likely no
rational argument can convince them otherwise. It’s amazing what goes on
between our ears, and hopefully what you believe is beneficial for you
.
I must admit that I’m still looking for that edge. On the
other hand, I can assert, but I can’t prove that at age 75, I can continue to
run ultra-marathons because of my superstitious behaviors. I must admit that
writing this piece brings a smile to my face. What brings a smile to your face?
What you think the Wolverines need as far as their thinking
in order to beat Ohio State on November 29? And, whether or not that will be good
enough to be victorious? Based on the season’s performance so far, they need
all the help they can get. Good luck Wolverines.
I think that Jon Gruden might be an excellent choice and
should be considered as the next football coach at Michigan. What do you think?
Go Blue!
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