Doing your first running or walking event can be nerve racking. To help you succeed here are a few helpful pointers.
Pre-race tips:
- A week before your event, consider tapering (decreasing the amount you train). This ensures your body is well rested for the event. Reduce the length (time) of your workouts but maintain the intensity (effort) and frequency.
- If possible, sign-in/check-in the day before your event to minimize the number of things you need to do on race-day. The night before, organize all the things you need: shoes, clothes, watch, race bib, drinks, and food.
Race-day tips:
- Set two alarms on the day of the event. Allow yourself extra time to get to the start line.
- Eat breakfast 2-3 hours before your event to allow time for digestion. Eat what has worked during your training (this is not the time to test out a new recipe)! Have a few sips of water up to the start of the race.
- Stick with your routine. Don’t try anything new on race-day that you haven’t tried in training. This goes for shoes, clothing, food, and drink.
- Pace yourself! At the start line your adrenaline will be flowing (think of the crowds, the music, and the sheer anticipation of the event). Resist the urge to go beyond your capabilities. For example, instead of rushing out with the lead runners, it may be more realistic to start on the conservative side and begin to increase your intensity as you pass the midpoint.
- Make sure to CELEBRATE your accomplishments! Remember to keep the flame going…after a few days of rest, ease back into training and set a new goal to work towards!
Share your race photos with us on Facebook or Twitter (@teampal and @healthyfamilybc). We'd love to celebrate your accomplishments!
Photo Credit: Ron Sombilon, 2013 (BMO Marathon)
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