Tips for first race

for me i keep it simple, i dont usually run 2 days in a row so if race day is sat then i run on thurs, then off on friday then ready on sat...eating tips, do what you normally do if you eat a candy bar then eat a candy bar if its a banana then eat a banana...stretch out right before, go to the bathroom like 30 minutes before and watch out for the long lines. remember most likely you have been training for this so keep it simple and keep the same routines. i hope this helps (also i was worried about water but you should be fine because they have water post twice in the race) one last thing...when you start dont go fast because everyone is all together and hard to stay with everyone so either go in the front and win it or keep a good pace at the begining and then around the 1k people will start to slow down and thats when you can move up and plus then you wont use all your energy at the begining



Have fun

Some simple tips.

- Pick up your race packet the day before.
- Pin your bib number on your shirt or shorts (front side) the night before, so it's ready in the morning.
- Most folks don't need to hydrate on the course unless it's more than an hour. If the 5k is going to take you that long, find out if they have water stations on the course, if not, plan to bring water or sports drink.
- You don't need to eat a lot for breakfast. Personally, I like 1/2C (pre-cooked weight) of oatmeal (not out of a packet) and a half a banana. I like to eat about 2 hours before the race.
- Fuel after the race. Grab a chocolate milk and a bagel or piece of fruit. There should be tents setup to supply all this for you.
- Stay relaxed at the start of the race. It's very easy to run much faster than your normal pace because of adrenaline. You are also mixed in with people that will have a much faster pace than you. Run your race, don't worry about the others.
- Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the day.

Don't do anything new - the race will be new enough. Everything you do should have been tried or worn before. No new shoes, clothes, food or drink before running, warm up routines, stretches, etc.

Start under control. Feel like you're running a bit too slow - you can speed up later if you have the energy. It's a whole lot more fun to feel like you're strong near the end, passing people who went out too fast, and perhaps even speeding up rather than be the one crashing who is getting passed and not having a good time.