First 5K Advice?

stelid

I am running my first 5K on Saturday and I was wondering if anyone with experience has any advice for a first time runner for raceday or the days leading up to the event.

rml_16

Keep in mind a 5K is 3.1 miles, so not that far. You probably have run that distance plenty of times.

Just make sure you leave enough time to park and get to the starting place on time. If you're slower, don't line up in front. If it's on narrow trails, make sure you're polite to faster runners who might be coming up behind you and leave them space to pass.

Otherwise, just show up and run!

Krull_the_WarriorKing

Have fun!! Your first race is always exciting. Take some time to enjoy the atmosphere. The starting line... the finish line. People cheering you on... You'll have some nervous energy, but make sure you do some people watching. Always my favorite part of the race.

fromnebraska

I lay out all of my running gear the night before, so that I don't forget anything in the morning; never wear new clothes/gear to a race. At the race, people line up behind the start line based on running ability. I'm fairly slow (12 min mile) so I stay towards the back of the pack. Hm...what else... Oh, don't eat anything weird/too heavy the night before or the morning of the race. And pace yourself during the race. I know I tend to start running too fast in the beginning of a race because I'm so excited, but I wear out before the finish.

Have fun!