What Do Marathon Runners Think About for 26.2 Miles?
Briefly

Joe Vigil, a renowned American coach, emphasizes the crucial role of mental strength in marathon running, stating 'the most important distance is the nine inches above the shoulders.' This indicates that mental resilience can be as critical as physical endurance.
Dakotah Lindwurm, who performed exceptionally in the Paris Olympics, notes that 'no elite runner goes into it unprepared for the distance,' highlighting the significance of mental preparation and focus in any marathon.
Brendan Leonard, a runner, shares his thought process during the marathon, explaining that his mind flits from physical sensations to tactics about overtaking others, showing how complex and varied a runner's mental landscape can be.
He also reflects on daydreaming about future tasks, illustrating how running allows the mind to wander freely, emphasizing that 'the mind can go in some interesting directions' during a long race.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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