5 ways to get over post-marathon blues

You’ve done the hard graft, are the proud owner of a new shiny marathon bling and you’ve probably got the t-shirt. But when you should be elated and feeling on top of the world, you can’t help but feel a little empty, apathetic, even mildly depressed? We hate to say it but it sounds like you’ve got a case of PMB (post-marathon blues). Don’t despair or wallow in self-pity, with a few tweaks in your mindset you can shift your thinking patterns. Here are 5 ways to get over post-marathon blues.

Be prepared for the finishing line

It’s all too easy to say it in hindsight but if you prepare yourself for the post-26.2 miles, you’ll find the transition easier. Talking of easy, one thing you can do is to think about ways you can celebrate. Perhaps you can plan in a sports massage or pamper day at a local spa, or head out with your friends for a hearty meal and drinks. Whatever you do post-race, make sure it’s positive by turning it into a celebration. Have your photo taken and place it in the pride of your mantelpiece at home and wear that bling with pride. Remember you’ve achieved greatness so make the most of it to boost your mood by planning the aftermath before you’ve reached the start line.

Take time to reflect

The race may be over but that doesn’t mean you can’t relive. One of the easiest and most helpful ways to get over it is to put pen to paper (or fingers to a keyboard) and write about your experience. Not only does this help give you an overview of the day and something to come back to again and again, a race journal can also allow you to process your feelings on the day and since your race.

Put the training into perspective

You’ve come so far and achieved your goal but that hasn’t been without sacrifice. For months the race has consumed you and it’s not all been fun. You may have missed out on nights out with friends, spent time training instead of heading to a birthday party, or banished weekend lie-ins. Use the time after your race to help you put it into perspective and think about the pros and cons of training for a marathon.

Spoil yourself

Take what you have learnt from above and use it as a reason to spoil yourself and those around you. While your body is in recovery, make sure you catch up with friends. Not only will this stop you from moping, it will also help you think about how you could do things differently. If you were to train for another race, what could you do to ensure you spend time with those who you may have neglected a little in the run up to the race. And if you held back in terms of treats during training, give in to those little treats. Remember a little of what you fancy not only cheers you up but also reminds you that variety and balance is the spice of life.

Find a new focus

As the old saying goes, when one door closes another door opens. Who’s to say that you can’t run another race? After all, you now have an idea of what you can personally do to make it a success. Don’t fancy another marathon? Well, you could try shorter races such as 10Ks or work on that 5K PB. Maybe you’d like to have a go at a triathlon, cycling sportive or 30-day yoga challenge. Whatever you decide, try and give yourself a new focus and remember to channel all your energy and give you something new to strive towards.