The Run Smarter Podcast

How Mentally Strong Runners Navigate Injury & Races with Claire Bartholic

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Mental strength is one of the most overlooked aspects of running performance. Most runners spend countless hours improving their fitness, strength, and nutrition, yet rarely dedicate any time to training their mindset. In this episode, Brodie sits down with running coach and host of The Planted Runner podcast, Claire Bartholic, to discuss the science of cognitive conditioning and how runners can develop greater confidence, resilience, and emotional control.

Whether you're struggling with race-day anxiety, negative self-talk, fear of re-injury, or the emotional challenges of a long-term setback, Claire shares practical strategies that can help you train your brain just as deliberately as you train your body.

In this episode, you'll learn:

•  What cognitive conditioning is and why it matters for runners 
•  How your self-talk influences performance and confidence 
•  Why race-day nerves aren't necessarily a bad thing 
•  The difference between mental strength and simply "thinking positive" 
•  How to stop spiralling after a missed workout 
•  Practical techniques to manage anxiety before races 
•  Why confidence is built through action, not waiting to feel ready 
•  How runners can better cope with injury setbacks 
•  Strategies to overcome fear of re-injury 
•  The importance of focusing on what you can control 
•  Why your identity as a runner can become problematic during injury 
•  How small wins build self-trust and long-term resilience 
•  The science behind repetition, neuroplasticity, and mindset training 

Key Takeaways

•  Your brain believes what you repeatedly tell it. 
•  Mental strength can be trained just like fitness. 
•  Confidence isn't something you wait for—it's something you build. 
•  Injury recovery becomes easier when you focus on what you can do rather than what you can't. 
•  Race-day anxiety often reflects how much you care, not a weakness. 
•  The way you respond to emotions matters more than the emotions themselves. 

Resources & Links

Learn more about Claire and her work:

• The Planted Runner Insta
• Begin With 10 Program
• The Planted Runner Website