Encouragement is one of the most valuable things a pacer gives. A friendly word at 32 km can keep a runner going when their legs say stop. But encouragement only works if runners trust you. If you tell a runner "only 2 km left" when there are 5 km left, you may get one more minute of effort, and then lose their trust for the rest of the race. This lesson is about motivating people honestly.
Honest encouragement, not false promises#
The golden rule: never promise something you cannot know. You do not know if a runner will reach their goal. You do know the facts in front of you.
| Avoid (false promise) | Say instead (honest) |
|---|---|
| "Only one more kilometre!" (when it is three) | "Three kilometres. One at a time. Next marker is close." |
| "You'll definitely get your PB!" | "You're on plan. Keep this rhythm and you give yourself the best chance." |
| "The hill is nearly flat." | "The bridge is 600 metres. Short steps, we ease the pace together." |
| "It doesn't hurt, you're fine." | "It's supposed to feel hard now. You've trained for exactly this." |
Specific facts are motivating: the next water station, the next kilometre marker, the time you are on plan. Runners can hold on to facts.
Group vs individual encouragement#
You will talk to two audiences, and they need different styles.
The group. Use short, upbeat calls everyone can hear: "Halfway, right on plan! Great work, team!" Group calls build a feeling of belonging. Runners push harder when they feel part of a team.
The individual. When one runner is struggling, move next to them (usually a support pacer does this, so the leader can keep the pace). Speak at normal volume and use their name if it is on their bib.
- Ask, don't assume: "How are you feeling?"
- Give one simple instruction: "Shorter steps", "Relax your hands", "Sip some water."
- Offer practical help, such as grabbing a drink for them (see water stations).
- Acknowledge their effort: "You've run 30 km. That's real work."
Watch for signs that a runner is not just tired but unwell, such as confusion or unsteady running. That is no longer an encouragement situation; it is a safety situation, covered in Module 4.
When someone drops off the group#
Every race, some runners will fall behind. This is normal and it is not your failure. You must stick to the planned pace because other runners are depending on it (see cross-checking pace).
When a runner drops off:
- Give them a positive goal. "Keep the group in sight. Run your own rhythm."
- Never shame them. Avoid "Come on, don't give up!" in a frustrated tone. Try "You're doing great, find your pace and finish strong."
- Point them to the next group. "The next pacer group is a few minutes behind. Join them when they come."
- Check they are safe. If they look unwell, alert race staff, do not just run on.
The last kilometres#
In the final part of the race, encouragement changes. Runners with energy left can be invited to push on and leave you behind. In a half marathon this is usually in the last 2 km; in a full marathon only after the last major bridge or climb. See encouragement and the last kilometres for the full guidance. And remember to cheer for everyone on the course, not just your own group.
Key takeaways#
- Never make promises you cannot know will be true; use honest, specific facts instead.
- Break the distance into small targets such as the next water station or kilometre marker.
- Use short, upbeat calls for the group and calm, personal, practical words for individuals.
- When a runner drops off, stay on pace, give them a positive goal and point them to the next group.
- Confusion or unsteady running is a safety warning, not a motivation problem.
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