The Psychology of Pacing: How Runners Blow It Early (And How to Fix It) | IDKR Episode 189

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Pacing isn’t just about splits, GPS watches, or fitness — it’s about decision-making under stress.

In this episode of the I Don’t Know Running Podcast, Lewis and Mitch dive deep into the psychology of pacing and why so many runners blow up before fatigue ever truly sets in. From race-day adrenaline and comparison traps to fear-based pacing and watch obsession, we unpack the mental mistakes that quietly sabotage great races.

But this episode goes beyond running.

We explore how mindful pacing — patience, restraint, awareness, and emotional control — applies not just to marathons and ultras, but to training, work, relationships, and life itself. If you’ve ever gone out too fast because you felt amazing early… or played it too safe and left time on the table… this one’s for you.

In this episode, we cover:

Why pacing is mostly a mental skill, not a physical one

Common psychological traps that ruin race execution

How adrenaline, ego, fear, and comparison derail pacing plans

Mindful pacing strategies for race day

Training your brain to pace, not just your legs

Why “boring” early miles are a sign you’re doing it right

How better pacing on race day mirrors better decision-making in life

Whether you’re chasing a PR, a BQ, or just trying to run smarter and enjoy the process more, this episode will help you stay controlled when it matters most.

👉 Drop a comment and share your own pacing lessons or race stories — we’d love to hear them.

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Happy running.

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