By the time the June 2022 Newsletter reaches the email newsstand, the spring track and field season will be a memory of the past.

Winter Training at Whisper Running pumped runners full of vigor and confidence, all of which was to be tested on the track, and just as often, between the ears. Remaining steadfast to the initial goals that were set in January and February is just as important now as it was then.

Closing ones eyes for a moment and recalling the speed at which runners circled the track, the ease and simplicity of the movements, the push from the coaches and peers, the incessant emotional drive for improvement - remember this! Turning "those feelings" into "these feelings," into the present moment, as well as adhering to the goals that were set, can reinvigorate ones training appetite, and ultimately, ones drive to perform at the higher levels.

As post-season approaches, it's important to remember a few key factors that were discussed during Winter Training, which include:

1. Keep your races varied. Runners should race at least four different distances in a single season. A rule of thumb: Invites are for your primary events, duals are for complimentary events.

2. Remember: Speed trickles up! If you want to get faster in the mile, race the 800m. If you want to get faster in the 800m, race the 400m. Stamina (aka, quality mileage) certainly helps, but there is confidence to be had knowing you can always count on having another gear in a race.

3. Speaking of mileage. With two to five weeks remaining, adding a little mileage may go against the grain of traditional training, but if a runner stands to gain confidence and fitness with a few added miles in a week, take the confidence!

As mentioned on an April 16 Instagram post, "Persistence and patience are key elements toward improvement. Remaining humble and hungry, setting huge goals, loving the process... Be all-in on believing your day will come, whether it's tomorrow or a year (or two) from now. Envision the process. Surround yourself with the right environment, the right team, etc. Those listed above and the ones (not listed) at Winter Training are all on the same team. No matter the school you attend, the club you run for, if you worked with us over Winter, you're in! Always remember the footnotes given to the Whisper runners at nationals: Forever Believe. Forever Believe. Forever Believe."