Whether you’re a seasoned casual runner or are using this as motivation to start your running journey, this article will cover the steps you need to take to ensure your ready on race day!

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the event and miss some essentials to ensure that you have a smooth (and fun!) race day.

It’s actually pretty simple to prep like a pro for your race day, you just need to follow some crucial steps.

So without further ado, here are some hot tips to ensure you’re at your best.

1. Prepare Your Body

Studies suggest that you should start to train up to 12 weeks in advance to ensure you are not only physically but mentally prepared for your race event.

Plan backwards from your race date to ensure that you have plenty of time to train, recover and taper in the lead up to your event.

2. Be informed

Research and find out what time the race commences and how long before you need to arrive. See what you need to do for registration and allocate enough time to do so. Also, take a close look at the map and check where the water refill stations and bathrooms are situated.

Also factor in travelling to the event and any parking or public transport details you need (include a plan b… just in case!).

3. Eating Health & Staying Balanced

When you start physically training for your race, it is important to start eating a healthy and balanced diet. You need to fuel your body with nutrients that will optimise peak performance.

Make sure to add a complex carbohydrate to every meal as they keep you fuller for longer and give a sustained release of energy. Food includes wholemeal pasta or bread, sweet potato, brown rice, banana and oats.

Lastly, avoid hard digestible foods or anything different from your regular diet the night before and day of race.

4. Don’t Get Sick!

In the last week or so, take extra care of yourself to avoid illness! Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather and rug up during and after running in the cold to avoid getting sick.

Don’t over train the week before so you are not tired and fatigued at the start line, you want to be feeling pumped and energetic!

Conclusion

If you follow these simple tips, you’ll rock up on race day feeling pumped with your mind and body both in peak condition! Always keep in mind that its all about personal goals and only compete as hard as you feel comfortable with.