Your Running Coach with GMacSpurr · August 26, 2025 · 8 min

17. Injury Doesn’t Define You: Protecting Your Runner Identity

In this episode of Your Running Coach with GMacSpurr , Coach G tackles one of the toughest challenges runners face: injury. When pain knocks you off your feet, it’s not just a physical setback; it’s a mental and emotional battle too. Coach G shares why getting any pain or discomfort checked by a professional is essential, and how to spot early warning signs before they turn into something bigger. More importantly, she explores how to cope mentally during injury so you don’t lose your runner identity, motivation, or joy. Learn about the three mental stages many runners go through when they’re forced to pause, and how to keep your “running brain” engaged through visualization and simple mindset practices. With reflective journal prompts and a powerful reminder that your connection to running is just as important as your mileage, this episode helps you reframe injury time as a season of learning, not losing. Links: - The Club - because there's more to running than what's featured in Strava. Work on the mindset stuff that can make all the difference. - Re-write your running story with  The Runner Identity Project (aka TRIP) - Curious about what coaching could do for you? Jump on a consultation call with Coach G - Break through what’s holding you back and unlock your next level with 1:1 Coaching - Join 31x31: 31-Day Self-Trust Challenge - If you like to listen to music on your run, grab your  new fav running playlist here -   If you are guessing what to eat before, during & after your run then look no further -  grab this 3-part running fuel series . Let's stay in touch: Follow  @gmacspurrcoaching  on Instagram Join the  Your Running Coach by GMacSpurr  community and keep the conversation going www.gmacspurr.com