The Lexus LaceUp Running Series IRVINE 5K and 10K race is this Saturday, October 17th! Meet LLU Ambassador and Long-Distance Runner Natasha Marsh and read about her pre-race prep.
There’s still time to sign up! Use code “OCMAGSOCIAL” for 20% off registration at LaceupRunningSeries.com
Are there any tips you would give for a runner preparing the night before or even the morning of the race? Do you yourself have any particular pre-game rituals?
Preparing for a race can be just as nerve wrecking as it is exciting. One tip that I would give to other runners is to be as prepared as possible the night before a race to avoid a stressful morning. This includes having your outfit picked out, all the way from your shirt down to your shoes! This also includes having your gear ready; bib number, gels, water bottles, and anything else you may need before, during, and after your run. A big time saver for me is knowing exactly where I need to park on race morning and what time I need to be there to avoid traffic from other runners. Another tip I would give, an obvious one, is to get enough sleep the night before a race. Sometimes easier said than done; excitement for a race seems to keep me up way too late!
Do you have any dieting tips or recommendations for someone preparing to run a race like the Lexus LaceUp?
As far as dieting goes, I would say the major thing is to hydrate! This is a very important one, as I cannot tell you how many runners I have seen during a race needing medical attention due to dehydration. As a runner, I am rarely without a water bottle wherever I go. Whether you have a big race coming up, or just some training runs during the week, make sure you are getting enough water. Sports drinks are also important to replace the electrolytes that are lost while you are running. In the days leading up to race day, you should stick to food that you normally eat and know that you can easily digest. Avoid eating anything new, as you do not know how your stomach will handle it. Carbs are a runner’s best friend! Carbing up a few days before a race ensures that you will have enough energy to get to that finish line! I like to eat half a bagel about an hour before a race to get in some last minute carbs.
How do you suggest pacing during the race? Are there any particular methods or strategies that work best for you?
Pacing yourself during your race is a huge must! If you go out too fast, you will hit that dreaded “wall” too soon. Setting a reasonable goal for yourself will give you something to work towards and it helps you push yourself. If you do set a goal, know the average pace you need to keep in order to reach that goal and try to keep it, or close to it, throughout the race. Most races do have pacers, which are great to stick with if you are trying to reach a new goal. Pacers are also great because they give you that extra motivation and push that you may need. During my races I have learned the lesson the hard way of going out too fast. Now when I run a race, I try to start out a little slower and then pick it up to a pace that I can maintain.
Facebook Comments