8 Essential Race Day Tips For First Time Runners

Hooray! Now that you have decided to run a race, I bet you have lots of questions on your mind like what you should be doing on the big day as well as how you should dress up for the event. Well, turn your panic button into OFF as you really don’t have to be in fear especially if you are joining a fun run or a run for a cause. And, it’s your first time, so it’s better to just enjoy the race.

Even though that is the case, you still need to come prepared for the event. And, here are some helpful information that may guide you on first race.

 

1. Eat your breakfast. We all know that breakfast is one of the most important meal of the day, so never forget to prepare a healthy breakfast for yourself. Moreover, it is best to eat at least one hour before the race and try to avoid fatty foods as the may cause stomach problems.
2. Come early. Coming on time is not an option. So, plan to be at the event at least an hour before the gun start. This is to give you ample time to prepare. Remember that you may need to register, change into your running attire and familiarize yourself on the place. Moreover, you will need to do some stretching to prepare your body.
3. Wear appropriate clothing. Your fashion sense shouldn’t kick in so much for a race. Remember that you are there to smell bad and to perspire. So, forget those make-ups and other cosmetics. Moreover, don’t mind too much if you look best on the camera or not. Well, who would be after running a few miles? So, it is enough for you to have comfortable clothing for the race and some extra clothes as your change clothes after the race. Nevertheless, bear in mind to avoid cotton clothes during the race as they will not be your best buddy.
4. Wear necessary accessories. Bibs are typically worn during the race as the number is reflects your identity. So, never fail to pin it. And, remember that the bib is placed on the front and not on the back of the shirt. Moreover, never forget to lace your timing chip. It will be the basis on how fast you finish the race. Lastly, leave unnecessary accessories behind like earring, rings and alike since those may cause injuries and troubles as you run.
5. Hydrate yourself. In most races, there are water stops along the route. So, better utilize them to keep you hydrated. Moreover, remember not to choose the first table on the water stop as that table used to be congested from people who want to drink as well. So, find a spot wherein you can easily grab the cup and run immediately.
6. Line accordingly. Never line up in front of the starting line as fast runners usually pick that spot. You might got intimidated by them or you might annoy them. So, choose a spot somewhere in the middle so that you can easily adjust your facing and you will not be scared by those who run like a horse.
7. Intend to finish. Since this is your first time to run, finishing the race is already a big achievement. So, don’t put too much pressure on yourself if you don’t win any prices. The fact that you have finished, it’s enough reason to celebrate.
8. Leave your brand new shoes. This is not the best time to flaunt your new shoes as you shouldn’t be wearing them. New shoes that are worn during the race is the common cause of injuries as your feet is not your comfortable with it. So, save that shoes for your nest run.