When Race Day Arrives
However slight the changes may be, the weather is beginning to show the first signs of spring. Outdoor exercise is becoming much more inviting. Like the buds on trees ready to bloom, the exercisers are becoming more visible along the streets and in the parks.
This also means that race calendars are becoming chock full of upcoming events. Have you been training for one? If so, then you are probably finding yourself face-to-face with race day. What once seemed to be forever away is now about to take place.
As you near the big day you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. You’ve likely developed some habits and learned a few things about yourself during your training. As the event gets closer, here are a few examples of the things you will want to concentrate on to ensure a successful race.
Know what you are wearing. No, this isn’t about how you look, but about how you’ll feel. Get your race gear ready to go. Wear clothes that you are familiar with and have run, walked or biked the same distance in. You won’t want any uncomfortable surprises such as chafing and blisters half way through the event. Race day isn’t the time to try something new whether it is headphones, sunglasses, shorts or shoes. You’ll want to be comfortable and familiar with all your gear.
Listen to your stomach. By now you know what sits well with you before an event and the kind of foods you’ll need to keep your energy up. Stick with the familiar. Race events often offer all kinds of goodies – bars, drinks, etc. – for you to try, but save them for after the race to reduce the risk of stomach upset from an unfamiliar food.
Don’t skimp on sleep. Being well rested has as much to do with your energy levels as your food intake. Concentrate on getting enough sleep each night during the week leading up to the event. This varies from person to person and it will most likely take 7 to 9 hours for you to feel completely rested.
Drink, and drink some more. Starting an event in a dehydrated state can lead to disastrous results. Stay well hydrated throughout the week leading up to the event. Aim for eight, eight-ounce glasses of fluid per day, preferably water. Limit excessive caffeine and alcohol intake.
There are lots of other ways to get ready for race day. Have more? Let me know what works for you.
Photo by Lori Rice
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