Running my first race

How far is your race? Do you have a training plan? Make sure you get fitted for your running shoes. Prepare yourself by cross training on your "off days". Stay well hydrated and eat clean foods. Some say, "I run so I can eat what I want".. Please do not think like that... That's not true!!! What is your goal?

@HuskyHiker413 Congrats on the 80 pounds! I've lost 78 myself this past year and know how great that feels... and it sure makes running easier.

You've got lots of time before your 5km to build a base and judging by your photo and user name can we assume you don't suffer from joint issues and are the sort that is open to or even enjoys pushing himself? If so, you probably have a good start already. I think you might surprise yourself at where you place in your age group.

As @gdyment said, nothing prepares you for running like running does.

The key is to train at a pace well within your aerobic capacity. If you can carry on something of a conversation while running without gasping between words and sentences then you are running slow enough. If not, slow down. Slowing down delivers all the endurance building benefits you need but also forces your gait to be less harmful to your body, reducing the risk of injury. Slowing down allows you to run longer and it's time on your feet that allows your body to adapt to the stresses.

Secondly, build on your distance progressively. Many will suggest not increasing your mileage per run more than 10% a week. Listen to your body; back off if it starts barking at you.

It's exciting to draw a line in the sand and work towards it! Good luck -- I'm sure you'll do great!

kelleybwade wrote: »

How far is your race? Do you have a training plan? Make sure you get fitted for your running shoes. Prepare yourself by cross training on your "off days". Stay well hydrated and eat clean foods. Some say, "I run so I can eat what I want".. Please do not think like that... That's not true!!! What is your goal?

Sorry, what are "clean foods" and what do they have to do with running at all?
Eat whatever your recommended number of calories are on MFP depending on your goals and try and hit your macros. Doesn't matter what you eat. Also eat back at least 50% of the exercise calories if you are only using MFP to tell your calories burnt, eat them all back if you are using a heart rate monitor.

Also, if you have met all your macros and still have calories left over, you can eat what the hell you like, so long as you remain within your calorie goal.