Mental Skills Training for Endurance Athletes

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FORMAT: A 4-Module, Self-Paced, Independent Learning Course 

** An online discussion will be scheduled after each module is completed (4 online discussions total)

DATES: The course can be started anytime. Modules are completed at your own pace

CLASS SIZE: The course can be completed individually, or as a group.

DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed for endurance athletes in Nature-based sports, including:

• Adventure Racing 
• Ultrarunning
• Mountain Biking & Bikepacking
• Paddling endurance events
• Xterra and other multisport races
• Obstacle course racing
• XC skiing
• Long course swimming

Over the 4 modules, we will help participants develop a better understanding on how the mind impacts training and performance in an endurance environment. We will explore topics such as:

• Better understanding the mind-body connection
• Getting out of your comfort zone
• Dealing with pain and suffering
• Maintaining focus over extended periods
• Mitigating negative thoughts and self-judgment
• Overcoming worry and fear

Each module of the course will include:

• Required reading (approximately 1 hour per module )
• A hands-on skill building activity
• A half-hour online chat to discuss the readings, activities, and application of mental skills in training and racing environments
• Links to additional techniques and resources

Course Instructor: James Galipeau, PhD.

James has a Master’s Degree in Sport Psychology and a Ph.D. in Education. He has conducted research on learning in sports teams and other small groups, as well as studying the mental skills used by adventure racers. Over the past 15 years he has competed in numerous endurance-based sports including: adventure races, ultramarathons, multi-day mountain bike races, canoe marathons, multi-day cross-country skiing events, snowshoe racing, and both summer and winter multisport races. He has raced in over 25 expedition-length adventure races - including 5 Adventure Racing World Championships - and has been on the podium in 5 Adventure Racing World Series Events. 

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