signed up first my first 5k! unsure why. very nervous

It's on July 21st ... Idk if I'm just,being a pessimist or what. But I don't think I'm ready... Do they give time limits? My mile is around 11:30 right now I don't wanna be the last one :(

Replies

  • 3dogsrunning
    3dogsrunning Posts: 27,167 Member
    I've never seen a 5k race with time limits but the information should be available. There are plenty of people who take part in the 5ks around here with that pace. Is there a website? Are last year's results available? That could give you an idea.

    While I doubt you will be, I have been DFL (dead ****ing last), its not bad. Everyone starts somewhere and you are still doing better than those at home on the couch. Go for it, have fun.

    DFL is better than DNF which is better than DNS. (did not finish, did not start).
  • alwaysgreen17
    alwaysgreen17 Posts: 85 Member
    You are too cute! Lol, don't worry! Sounds like you have a fine pace at 11:30. I have done my first two this year and I was also scared. But man, oh man..when you finish--it is so rewarding! I promise, you won't be the last one because there are a lot of people who leisurely walk them.

    I am not a strong runner at all. But I am still happy with my results. My first time was 34:36. I improved it to 32-something. I have room to improve for sure, but you will have fun. Just remember to pace yourself. You will want to run fast at the beginning because of the excitement but remember it is easier to go (what feels like) slower in the beginning and finish strong.

    GOOD LUCK!
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    It's on July 21st ... Idk if I'm just,being a pessimist or what. But I don't think I'm ready... Do they give time limits? My mile is around 11:30 right now I don't wanna be the last one :(

    Your only goal for your first race is to cross the finish line with a smile on your face. My first 5K was just under 40min my best time for the same race (last year) was 26:07. The feeling you get crossing that fish line, even if you're last, is indescribable.

    Running teaches us a lot of lessons in perseverance and patience and can be incredibly rewarding, even for those of us that will never make the podium.
  • Liz_Mfp
    Liz_Mfp Posts: 172 Member
    Each event is different, but does it say it is a Run/Walk?
    Or just a Race or?

    You can probably check online for the event's "last year's finishing times", everyone, not just the winners
    That might give you an idea of how long they "stay open" for the Walkers
    :-)
  • You'll be fine for your first 5K - just focus on finishing. You'll be really motivated, nervous, and have an adrenaline rush during your first race that you'll run faster and usually finish faster than you expected; that's what happened to me my first 5k back in May. I promise you won't be the last to finish - a lot of people choose to walk the 5K; you'll be fine :) Good luck!
  • I just completed my first one last weekend. So proud of myself.
    My goal was to just finish no matter what and I completed it in 44 mins, with the best time in my age group being 35 so I did better than expected. Just make the most out of the accomplishment and try to let go of the nerves.
  • TealStar13
    TealStar13 Posts: 165
    You are going to do fantastic! There are no time limits to any of the 5K's that I've done. I did my first 5K in Jan (Graffiti Run) and I haven't stopped since. I've done a 5K or mud run every month since then. Once you get done with your first one you will feel a great sense of accomplishment, at least I did. I wish you the best of luck. Don't worry just have fun with it! I wish you the best of luck on your first 5K and hope its a memorable experience. :happy:
  • AmyRhubarb
    AmyRhubarb Posts: 6,890 Member
    I haven't done a 5k yet that didn't have runners of all abilities, as well as walkers. You'll be fine and will have so much fun! I was so stinkin' nervous for my first race, too - in fact I still get butterflies when I register for a race, pick up my race packet, think about race day, etc. :bigsmile:

    There's a great topic here about first races and what to expect - he covers everything from a full marathon to a 5k, how to prepare in the days leading up to it, what to expect at the race, etc. It's good info, and helped ease my nerves a bit - give it a read: http://www.myfitnesspal.com/topics/show/279198-running-tip-so-you-are-about-to-do-your-first-race?hl=so+you're+about
  • halzuzu
    halzuzu Posts: 60 Member
    I usually finish my 5K's in 40-45 min and there are still always plenty of people finishing behind me. Nothing to be nervous about. You'll do fine. Just have a great time! Run Girl Run! :)
  • amybg1
    amybg1 Posts: 631 Member
    it's your first 5 - that pace is fine though I'm always faster on race day so you may surprise yourself. There are no time limits, some people walk 5Ks and being dead last shouldn't matter...have fun, enjoy it and FINISH is what you should be focusing on!
  • donrdon
    donrdon Posts: 216 Member
    You'll be fine. Just stick to the pace you're comfortable with and have fun. You'll love it.