Emotional Intelligence in Ultramarathoners

Ultramarathoners are tough breeds. Especially in multiday events runners endure periods of intense fatigue, GI disturbances, sleep deprivation, muscular & joint pain, skin abrasions and emotional strain on top of it all. Besides physically training for the challenges, are there things you can do to improve your odds of a successful experience? Lots! One such thing may be upping your psychological game.

 There is some variation on the precise definition of trait emotional intelligence (EI), however most researchers agree it involves awareness of one’s own emotions, how to regulate them and equally comprehend and influence the emotions of others. Research supports the notion that EI can facilitate sport performance (Zizzi, Deaner, & Hirschhorn, 2003). Not only that, recent research reported runners with a higher EI had a lower mood disturbance and rate of perceived exertion during an ultramarathon in comparison to those with a lower EI (Howe et al, 2019). 

Improving your EI begins with tuning into your emotions & the feedback from others. While you’re on the race course, take a run in someone else’s shoes & you’ll likely both be better for it!