So you have been following your training plan and are ready to toe up to the start line and get running on your big race....Here are a few tips to get your body and mind in tip top shape so you can run with confidence and finish with a smile.
>Get a good nights sleep two days before your race. I know it's not really a race day tip, but it will surely help you to show up feeling fresh. Most of us will have a tough time sleeping the night before a race because of nerves or just excitement, so making sure to rest up fully the night before will get the energy stores recharged and ready to rock.
>Get up early race morning to fuel up, hydrate, and prepare for the race. You want to give yourself plenty of time to eat and loosen up and use the restroom before you head out to the race. Race day is your fun day and should be enjoyed so you don't need to add extra stress by being late and trying to rush through traffic and crowds near the race venue.
>Have a race plan. Write down your goal pace and break down where you want to be in each section of the run. Normally it is good to start a bit slower and build up your pace along the way and try to finish the last part of the race at your full race intensity. Having even a basic plan will help keep your mind focused and make the race go by quickly.
>Hydrate. The day before the race you should be drinking water constantly. You don't need to overdo it but make sure you have water with you and keep sipping all day. Have a big glass of water in the morning, but again not too much or you will be stopping at every port-o-pottt along the race course. All races will have water along the course, so know where they will be and use them.
Now get out there and have some fun!!
