Tips for my first 15k

Bexx005

I've ran 5ks before and those have gotten pretty easy over time. However I'm going to run my first 15k in November. I've never ran anything longer than a 5k so I'm not quite sure as to what to expect from running that many miles at once? Do I have to eat any of those goo pack things during the run? What would be better to drink and how often should I drink while running?

Tips would be awesome

BrianSharpe

Do you have a training plan? If you don't check out Hal Higdon's Half-marathon plans, longer than your race so you can skip the longest runs if you like (or be ultra-prepared for the race and have a really enjoyable experience)

It's a very individual thing. If your diet is adequate and you train progressively leading up to the race you may find you don't need any nutrition during the race (most adults can store enough glycogen to get you through 90 minutes) If you do find yourself feeling fatigued during your longest runs a gel isn't going to hurt......just make sure you train with whatever you're going to race with (and try your first gels in close proximity to home or washroom facilities - I've never experienced any gastrointestinal problems but some people do and you don't want any surprises on race day)

Similarly hydration for your race takes place in the days leading up to it not on race day itself. Personally I'd stick to water, you shouldn't need to replace electrolytes in that distance but if you decide to use a sports drink the advice is the the same as for gels.....train with whatever you're going to race with. You don't want to drink too much while running, water sloshing around in your stomach can cause cramps - think small sips. Typically during my training runs I don't even carry water unless it's going to be 90 minutes or more and it's hot.

Bexx005

This is really helpful thank you so much!! I really had no idea how to go about training for this type of distance