It's important that before running the Flora London Marathon you get some experience of running in a big event, whether it's a 10k for half marathon. Having never been to an organized road race, you probably have no idea of what to expect. Don't worry: even the most experienced runners have been in your position before. By following a few basic guidelines you will have a successful first race experience and be looking forward to your next race.
Choose a race
It is important that you choose a distance that you can handle and enjoy for
your first race. If you have only been training a few months, it is probably
not a good idea to enter a marathon. Save the marathon for later and find a
shorter race for your debut. A common distance run at many events is the 5-Kilometers
or just over three miles. The distance is challenging, but short enough that
you will be able to easily complete the race on a couple of months of training.
Sign up early
You can find race applications at local running stores, online, health and fitness
clubs, or you can send a self-addressed stamped envelope to the race director
requesting an application. Once you receive the application it is a good idea
to send it in as soon as possible. This is not absolutely necessary, but a
good idea for a first time racer. By signing up early, you are making a commitment
to yourself to run the race and will be less likely to back out at the last
minute. Early registration can also save you a few bucks because most races
generally raise the price significantly for race day registration.
The night before
The night before can be as important as the day of the race. This is the time
to get all of your equipment ready and make sure that you are properly fuelled
for the task that lies ahead.
Pre-race meal
You want to eat food that will agree with your stomach. It is a good idea to
experiment with foods during your training. If something doesn't agree with
you (and you will know it) then definitely don't eat it before the race. In
other words, this is not the night to try the new Cajun restaurant that just
opened in town.
You don't have to worry about carbo-loading unless you will be racing at a high intensity for 90 minutes or more. The amount and what you eat is totally up to you, but it is probably better to eat light. Along with eating, don't forget to drink plenty of fluids. You should drink 4-6 ounces every hour that you are awake leading up to your race to avoid dehydration.
Equipment check
Before you turn in for the night, make sure you lay out the clothes
and shoes that you plan on wearing to the race. The last thing you want to be
doing in the morning is wasting all of your energy searching for something to
wear. It would also be a good idea to pack a race day bag. Include an extra change
of clothes, towel, water bottle, light snack, registration money (just in case
your entry didn't get there) and clothing for unpredictable weather.
Race Day
Don't try and squeeze a few extra hours of sleep in before the race. Your body
will function much better at the starting line if you have been up and moving
for 2-3 hours. As soon as you get up, eat a light breakfast and drink plenty
of fluids. Stay away from fried foods; bagels or toast with jam are usually
a safe bet.
Arrive early
You will want to arrive at least an hour before the start of the race. Remember
to account for traffic and the long lines that usually form at the registration
tables and restrooms (which you will want to visit before the gun goes off).
If you have already registered, simply find the early registration table and
get your race number, which you will pin on the front of your race shirt or
singlet. If you have not pre-registered, find a registration table and sign
up for the race that you plan on running— it's that simple.
Warm up
You will be nervous, but you still need to warm up. By getting your warm up started,
it will get you ready for the race and relieve some of your pre-race anxiety.
Your warm up will not wear you out, so make sure you get plenty of jogging
(at least 10 minutes) and stretching in.
The start
Follow the masses to the starting line and position yourself in the middle or
back of the line. Stay out of the front row, it is usually reserved for the
most experienced runners. You don't want to get caught up in their race plan—remember
your goal is to finish the race. When the gun is fired try to contain yourself
and keep the pace easy the first few minutes. If you go out too hard you will
be miserable for the majority of the race and may have difficulty finishing.
Once you are into the race, settle in at a pace that feels comfortable to you
and enjoy the scenery.
Congratulations and good luck!
You are ready for a long and successful racing career.
copyright realrunner.com 2004