You’ve put in the training, paid attention to your nutrition and are ready to rock on race day. If this is your first race, you’re probably a little nervous about what to expect on the morning of the race. Some top runners in the community, who have run more than just a couple of races, share their best tips to ensure that you have a great race day. Happy running!
“For me, the number one rule above and beyond all else is to get a good night’s sleep the night before the race! This usually means going to bed earlier than usual which is not always easy, but you really need to dial in early in order to get up on race day and allow yourself enough time for your morning routine! Eat a light but solid breakfast, drink plenty of water but don’t drink more than usual. Wake up, give God thanks for the day, and for two legs or a wheelchair to carry you through the race. Then go hug your child, spouse or friend — or all three– and go HAVE FUN!”
– Bre
“My number one piece of advice is to rest and recover the day before so you’re charged up for race day! Pack your bag and get your race gear ready to go the day before as well! Number two, you need to drink water and eat a light breakfast for fuel and hydration. Finally, arrive at the race at least 30-60 mins early to warm up and get checked in!”
– Whitley
“Get to the race early – give yourself plenty of time to check-in, warm-up, and go to the bathroom!”
– Jen
“I read somewhere that if you aren’t just a little nervous the day of the race you aren’t ready. Remember that everyone you line up with probably has a butterfly or two swimming around down low. Take deep breaths and embrace the fact that the race will be over before you know it. There will be times it’s uncomfortable, especially if you go out too fast. Going out too fast is a trap. Stay cool, calm and collected. This is something you’ve most likely trained for and deep down you know that you can finish this race. Formulate a plan and stick to it. At the end of the day, you became a runner the moment you laced up those shoes.”
– Seth
“Don’t over hydrate in the morning. The last thing you want is to be doing the potty dance at the start of the race.”
– Aaron
“Don’t try anything brand new! Follow the same routines you built during your training. Trust your training and keep your goals at the forefront of your mind. Offer up your race for someone or something, so you’re focused on something other than yourself, and get PUMPED UP! It should be enjoyable, or as enjoyable as possible!”
– Maria