Signed up for my first 5K!!!!!

I started running several months ago and just finished 5k #2 at right around 29 minutes. One of the hardest things for me was wanting to be fast as soon as I started running. My trainer told me to go about 5.2mph in the beginning and then work up distance first then speed would come which was very helpful.(still not overly fast) After you hit the first half mile it will get harder, but just keep at a steady pace and start near the front of the pack. Both times I started near the back with a friend and it took quite some time to just pass the slower people that rarely stay to the right. Best of luck and you will do great!

Good luck with your race! I'm doing my second 5K this Sunday and it is the same race, different location. I'm super excited. :bigsmile:

Anyway, as for advice from a fellow new runner:
- Make sure you have good shoes if you don't already (get fitted at a running store, gait analyze, etc)
- Go low and slow. Speed will come. Build distance up slowly. I've hurt myself trying to do too much too soon.
- Compression sleeves for your calves are FANTASTIC if you have issues in your legs (like I do).
- Foam rollers are AMAZING. I use it as part of my stretching routine before any length run to make sure my legs are warmed up.
- Day of the race, enjoy! Listen to some music before you start out to get you PUMPED UP!
- It's normal to be nervous! Especially if you've never ran a 5K before. Try not to let it get the best of you. Have FUN!
- Focus, relax, breathe.
- When it comes to breathing, don't think too much about it. I find I cause most of my side stitches by focusing on my breath too much. Let your body do its thing and enjoy the ride!
- There are plenty of couch to 5K running programs if you need a structured program.

Hope some of those help! I've been running for 6 months now, and those are some helpful tips I've encountered along the way.