View Your Next Race as a Challenge, Not a Test
I used to think about a race like it was a test.
On the surface, it makes sense. I’ve been training consistently, putting in the hard work, and want to see the results of my effort.
There’s a reason why people say a race is an opportunity to “test their fitness.”
But when we think about racing in this way, it becomes a pass or fail proposition, which creates a sneaky undercurrent of pressure.
Pressure to perform. Pressure to meet expectations. Pressure to avoid making a mistake.
Pressure might make diamonds, but it rarely leads to better athletic performance.
Thinking about a race like a test is common for most athletes, but I want to challenge you to try a different perspective.
There’s a better way- one that will shift your entire perspective about racing and, quite possibly, the outcome, in the process.
Think of a race as a challenge, not a test
Every Wednesday, my coach sends out a newsletter. It includes photos and results from our teammates’ most recent races, a question of the week, and a topic of discussion. This week was about taking calculated risks.
“Risk often carries negative emotions, particularly fear of failure. But in sports, calculated risk can be transformative. When executed thoughtfully, risk-taking can elevate mental toughness, boost confidence, foster growth, and improve performance under pressure.” - Marni Sumbal
That got me thinking.
Do I take risks when I race?
I’m not sure I do. In most cases, I like a carefully-crafted plan, one that I believe will give me the best opportunity to cross the finish line with a result I’m proud of.
Now, having a pre-race plan is a good thing- knowing what effort level to give on the swim, bike, run; how much nutrition you need to consume per hour; a few self-talk phrases to maintain focus. Having a plan also helps minimize the chances of something going wrong- bonking, underperforming, blowing up (but not always).
I think where many of us take this too far is having specific outcomes tied to the plan, ie. a certain bike split, a specific run pace, or an overall result.
Outcomes are “all or nothing.” You either achieve the end result of doing a sub-6 70.3, getting a certain bike split, qualifying for whatever, or you don’t. There’s no middle ground. The problem is these outcomes aren’t solely dependent upon your own effort, so you don’t have complete control over them. And basing your entire race plan on something you can’t control is foolish, at best, and dangerous, at worst.
Here’s my favorite part of the newsletter- the one that spurred the idea for today’s post (which I thought of during my run this morning. Is it weird I get ideas while working out?)
“Viewing risk as a challenge, rather than a threat, shifts your mindset. Instead of fear holding you back, you become energized- more focused, confident, and ready to perform.”
So why don’t we think about the race itself, less like a test to be measured against, and more like a challenge, instead?
A challenge can be defined as a demanding situation or task that requires effort and determination to overcome. That definitely sounds like a race to me.
Just think about the word- challenge. To me, a challenge sounds inspirational, like something you’re excited to take on. It will take hard work and effort of course, or it would be challenging, but it’s also hopeful and optimistic. A challenge is a worthy pursuit, one that will show how far you’ve come as an athlete.
Now, think about the word- test. Ugh. Takes you back to elementary school, right? Getting a grade that determines whether you pass or fail, whether you’re smart enough or talented enough or good enough. Judgement, expectation, pressure.
But there’s no pressure with a challenge, because it’s something you’re choosing to do, to push your limits and see what you’re capable of.
When you think about a race as a challenge, instead of a test, you’re less likely to view the outcome as success or failure. You’re less likely to play it safe. You’re more willing to take a few calculated risks that might result in an outcome beyond what you’ve even dared to dream.
Want more from Triple Threat Life?
Paid subscribers receive access to:
FREE copy of Tri Smarter, Not Harder e-book
Members-only articles, bonus content, and video tutorials
Exclusive discounts from top brands like (ROKA, Running Warehouse, Rudy Project, ect.)
$40 annual nutrition credit from The Feed
Monthly webinars with expert guests
Sign up for the Club.