5 Race Week Tips!
With my big 35 mile race on Saturday, I have compiled a list of my Race Week Must Do’s. Now, everyone is different. So, what works for me, might not work for you. But this will give you something to think about it.
- Light exercise. Even with a race a few days away, I try and keep my steps up (my goal is 10k a day) and get my heart rate up. I will run 3-5 miles 3 days next week and workout on the bike or elliptical 2 times next week.
- Carbs and Protein. A no brainer. My favorite pre race dinner is Chicken Parmesan. It is important to eat foods that your body is use to and not try something new that could mess with your digestion.
- A good playlist. Everyone has different tastes, but the important thing to remember when making a running playlist is to put songs that excite you on it. Pump up jams! I prefer 90’s and early 2000’s pop, along with some Tom Petty and Dave Matthews.
- Rest. It is so important to be well rested leading up to a race. Most races start early in the morning. I normally go to bed around 11PM (or later if my schedule is busy). The week of a race I try and be in bed before 10 to get a better nights sleep. I also work on getting up a little earlier so it is a not a surprise on race day (even though my excitement for a race is the best alarm!).
- Positive Attitude! (sorry for being a little lame). You have a goal going into a race- remember that while you are training. Keep that goal in mind while you are prepping and use it as motivation during the race! It’s your day. Enjoy it!
If you are new to running, hopefully these tips will help you prepare for a race. Remember to have fun and stay positive heading into a race. The running community is a powerful community and we are here to support all runners! Good Luck!