Triathlon as a sport is still young, having begun in France in the 1920s when competitors participated in a race called “Les trois sports” —“Three Sports” —which originally consisted of crossing the channel Marne, a 12K bike ride and a 3K run.

As the sport began to catch on, the most famous triathlon in the world started to emerge in Hawaii, where three separate events—the Waikiki Rough Water Swim (2.4 miles), the Oahu Bike Race (112 miles) and the Honolulu Marathon (26.2 miles)—were combined, in 1978, to make up the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon.

Apart from the physical training—perhaps the more difficult part—the mental preparation and strategy are underestimated by many first-timers. The Ironman Triathlon is just as much a mental challenge as it is a physical feat. You must remain positive and keep pushing yourself further to achieve your best results. Propel yourself to achieve your best finish times yet with the below strategies:

1. Think a Mile at a Time

A race the length and difficulty of an Ironman Triathlon is overwhelming to think of in its entirety. The first feeling of fatigue can easily make you question your decision to take part in such a race. However, thinking of the race in smaller, more manageable chunks will help you get through it with a positive mindset and better results.

2. Make Use of Aid Stations

For the Ironman Triathlon, aid stations are placed every mile throughout the course. This helps you mentally pace yourself and provides you the opportunity to refuel. Don’t take these stations for granted. Taking a moment to nourish your body could actually push you to a faster finish time in the long run. Pro tip: Take a moment to interact with volunteers at these stations. Though the interaction is simple and quick, taking in their energy and cheers of encouragement will help you keep pushing yourself.

3. Never Give Up, Keep Going

At difficult points throughout the race, and as you approach the end of the race, it is easy to let the negative thoughts in. At some point throughout the race, you will likely find yourself thinking things like, “I can’t do this,” or “If I just walk for a bit I’ll get re-energized.” Push these thoughts out of your mind. You have trained for this and you CAN do it. You just need to keep pushing yourself. Never give up.

Leading up to the race, you’ll want to make sure your body gets the support it needs. You’re bound to get superior race-day results if you power-pack your diet a few weeks and even months before the competition. From sprint triathlon training to the Ironman, on the day of the race your body will be pushed to the max and you will expend a massive amount of energy.

When it comes to supporting our nutritional preparation, BodyHealth Complete Multi + Liver Detox Support is an all-in-one solution for complete nutrition. During training and once you’ve finished the race, nourish your body and your mind. To help support your body’s natural healing process, consider adding an amino acid supplement to your post-race regimen. BodyHealth’s PerfectAmino contains the eight essential amino acids to support speedy muscle repair.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.