Born to be Alive

So, you’ve gone and entered the Marathon des Sables…

You’re probably filled with a mixture of excitement, anticipation, a significant amount of fear, and possibly thinking ‘What have I gone and done, and worse still, how am I going to tell my loved ones?’ And yes, however much entering the MDS can be a frightening experience, the thought of actually taking part can be spine-chillingly terrifying.

The fear comes in various guises, including the physical demands of the race, the mental strength required, the possibility of injury, and the fear of failure. Understanding these fears and addressing them is crucial for anyone taking part next April.

The Physical Demands

One of the primary sources of fear when contemplating the MDS is the sheer physical challenge it represents. Covering 250km in the heat of the Sahara requires not only endurance but also months of rigorous training. The body must adapt to the heat, increased training workload, improved stamina, and increased overall fitness. This can feel an overwhelming prospect to those who have never run in desert conditions and are training through the British Winter.

The fear of not being physically prepared however, is very common. Everyone I’ve ever encountered at the MDS has said they could have trained harder. Many worry about their ability to even complete the race and fear that they will suffer from exhaustion or dehydration. The physical pain associated with the MDS, including blisters hyperthermia hangs heavy on the mind for months prior to the start. Moreover, the commitment to a training regimen can feel overwhelming, especially for those balancing work and family life.

Mental Strength

Beyond the physical challenges, running the MDS requires significant mental strength. The mental aspect involves staying motivated during long training runs, overcoming the monotony of continuous movement, and pushing through the mental barriers that arise during the MDS itself. The fear of not being mentally strong enough can ruin the whole MDS experience, taking a good supply of ‘man-up tablets’ helps no-end.

The mental aspect also includes dealing with self-doubt and anxiety. Many people experience imposter syndrome, worrying that they are not as prepared or as capable as other competitors. The MDS IS a competitive race, and seemingly fitter competitors can intimidate those further down the field.

Everyone will say they just want to finish, yet most will check their finishing position and age category finish, post-race.

Injury

The possibility of injury leading up to the MDS is a big worry. Training puts a considerable strain on the body, and injuries such as stress fractures, shin splints, and knee problems are common each year. Continuing to train when injured is common practise and it’s always best to rest until the injury is resolved before getting back into the MDS training workload.

Our bodies need time to heal from the uplift in effort. For those with existing injuries or chronic conditions, the fear of exacerbating these issues can also play a significant role in their apprehension. Better to get to the race at 80% of fitness that not to get there at all.

Failure

An MDS finish is very black and white. Binary in fact. You either finished or didn’t. Everyone gets the same medal and everyone that finishes, is a winner. No-one will ever ask your time or position; just ‘Did you finish?’. So, failure is not an option.

This failure fear is often linked to a broader fear of public embarrassment or judgment. The thought of struggling or failing in front of one’s peers, fellow runners, or loved ones can be paralysing.?

The MDS is the ultimate test of endurance and strength, and the fear of not passing this test can be a significant barrier to even taking part in the first place.

Overcoming the Fear

While these fears are common and understandable, they can be managed and overcome with the right strategies and mindset. Here are some ways to address and alleviate the fears:

Proper Training

Adequate preparation is key to overcoming physical and mental fears. Following a structured training plan designed for your fitness level can help build confidence and ensure you are physically ready for the MDS. Gradually increasing your mileage and incorporating rest days can prevent injuries and burnout - training in sand helps no end. Come to Wales, we have the best sand dunes in the UK!

Setting Realistic Goals

Setting achievable goals can help reduce the pressure and fear of failure. Instead of focusing on a specific position, aim to complete the race and enjoy the experience. Celebrating small milestones during the race, helps to maintain motivation and confidence.

Mental Training

Just as you train your body, it’s essential to train your mind. Techniques such as visualisation, positive self-talk, and mindfulness can help build mental resilience. Practicing mental strategies during training runs can prepare you for the mental challenges of the MDS itself.

Support System

Having a support system of friends, family, or a training group can provide encouragement and accountability. Sharing your fears and goals with others can alleviate some of the anxiety and provide a sense of community strength.

Education and Preparation

Educating yourself about what to expect at the MDS can help reduce fear. Familiarise yourself with the rules, and learn from those ‘that have’ everything you can about the race. Knowing exactly what to expect can make the MDS experience far less intimidating.

Focus on the Positive

Instead of dwelling on potential negative outcomes, focus on the positive aspects of taking part in the MDS. Think about the sense of accomplishment, the health benefits, and the personal growth that comes from taking on such a challenge.

Acceptance of Uncertainty

Accept that some degree of uncertainty is inherent in any challenging endeavour. Embrace the unknown as part of the journey and understand that everyone faces doubts and fears. The key is to move forward despite them.

Professional Guidance

Seeking guidance from an experienced MDS Coach can provide personalised advice and reassurance. A coach can help tailor a training plan to your needs and provide invaluable support for your MDS completion.

So, DON’T PANIC!!!

Being frightened about entering the MDS is a natural response to the significant physical, mental, and emotional demands of the race. However, these fears can be managed and overcome with proper preparation and a supportive network. By addressing your fears head-on and taking proactive steps to mitigate them, it’s possible to transform fear into excitement and anticipation, ultimately leading to a rewarding and fulfilling MDS experience. The journey to the finish line is as much about personal growth and resilience as it is about the physical act of running the race itself.

Overcoming the fear of the unknown is a victory in itself. Finishing the MDS is one of the best experiences I’ve ever personally experienced and I’ll be back there with you in April for my 18th?MDS. I’m not frightened, I’m excited as I’ll be making more life-memories with you.

And now you’ve entered, enjoy your MDS – don’t worry it’s amazing. You’ll be amazing.

1,190 Marathons - 277 Ultras - 17 Marathon des Sables - 0 Worries