The Efficacy of a Digital Mindset Intervention to Improve Race Performance, Training Outcomes, and Recovery in Recreational Half Marathon Runners: A Randomized Controlled Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating whether a brief digital mindset training program can improve performance and training outcomes for recreational runners preparing for a half marathon in New Zealand in 2025. This randomized controlled trial aims to test if reframing physical symptoms like fatigue or soreness as signs of progress helps runners complete the race and improve their official times compared to standard training advice or no training content. The study also explores whether the mindset training supports better training habits and faster recovery after the race. Participants are randomly assigned to one of three groups: a mindset intervention group, a standard marathon training group, or a control group with no intervention. The mindset group receives four brief digital modules over nine weeks before the race, focusing on beliefs about mindsets, interpreting physical symptoms positively, maintaining motivation during peak training, and race-day mental preparation. The standard training group receives four digital modules with general running guidance but no mindset content. The control group continues their usual training without additional digital content. Participants complete an online survey at the start and a follow-up survey after the half marathon. Researchers measure official race times and completion rates at race day, as well as recovery time and peak training activity one week after the race. The digital content is delivered via app or email, and adherence is tracked through engagement with the modules. The study lasts approximately nine weeks, covering the intervention and race period, and includes statistical analysis to compare outcomes among the groups.

Digital Mindset Intervention for Half Marathon Performance