
Ep 80: Mindfulness Moments - Race Day Visualization, with Coach Michelle Quirk of Mindful Marathon
From Mindful Marathon Podcast by Michelle Quirk, MD
March 23, 2026 · 16 min · Episode 80
About this episode
This episode focuses on race day visualization as a tool for mental and emotional preparation for runners.
Welcome to another Mindfulness Moment. These episodes feature a short practice you can return to whenever you want to feel more steady, prepared, and connected. In this episode, we’re focusing on race day visualization, a powerful tool to help you mentally and emotionally prepare for your next race. Race day often brings a mix of excitement, anticipation, and nerves. Visualization allows you to walk through the experience ahead of time, so when the moment arrives, it feels more familiar and grounded. This is not about imagining a “perfect” race.It’s about preparing your mind to respond with steadiness, confidence, and care, even when challenges arise. In this episode, you’ll be guided through: A pre-visualization writing exercise to help you imagine your race day in detail A guided visualization walking you from race morning to the finish line Sensory awareness prompts to anchor you in the moment (sights, sounds, physical sensations) Gentle strategies for navigating common race-day challenges with intention You can use this practice in the days leading up to your race, the night before, or even the morning of, as a way to center yourself. My hope is that this episode helps you…
People in this episode
Host: Michelle Quirk
Topics covered
- mindfulness
- race day visualization
- mental preparation
- running
- fitness
Keywords
- visualization
- race day
- mindfulness
- preparation
- running challenges
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Mindful Marathon
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