Saturday is the big day. At this point you have (or haven’t!) done all you can to be prepared. Here are some quick tips to help you out as we approach The Bill Landers 5K

 

• The Night(s) Before: Get a good night sleep 2 nights before, and also the night before. The night before have a healthy dinner. Charge your Garmin and/or iPod, and lay out your race outfit. Do not try anything new the day of the race-shoes, shirt, socks, shorts, food, snacks, drinks, etc (Don’t forget to wear your mission FITNESS shirt!!)

 

• Hydrate: The day before make sure you drink plenty of water. Watch your intake the morning of, as you don’t want to have to stop along the way to use the bathroom.

 

• Breakfast: Eat at least one hour prior to the race. Choose something that is high in carbohydrates, and low in fat, fiber, and protein. Examples would be toast/bagel with peanut butter, oatmeal, etc.

 

• Get there Early: Plan to get there at least a half hour before race start time. Remember you will need to find a parking space, check in, put on your bib, use the port-o-potty, and find the mission FITNESS team!!!

 

• Line Up Correctly: As you make your way to the start line, know where you stand. If you know you are slower runner, do not start at the front of the pack. If you are above average, don’t start in the back and have to use all of your energy weaving through the slower runners. Take a deep breath and tell yourself you can do this!!!

 

• Pace Yourself: Once the gun goes off, your first instinct may be to take off as fast as you can. Try to pace yourself so you are not out of energy after mile one. You are looking to finish the race as strong, if not stronger, than you started.

 

• Don’t Run Too Far: Pay attention to where the turns are, and make sure you are doing the straightest line possible. Don’t take turns too wide and make the race longer than it needs to be!

 

• Water Stations: If you choose to hydrate, know which cups are Gatorade and Water. If you aren’t used to drinking Gatorade while you run, you don’t want tro try it race day….I’ve heard horror stories!

 

• Finish Strong: Usually the last leg of the race is run a pure adrenaline! Let your legs do the work, and smile and enjoy the ride. There will be mission family all around cheering you on….embrace it and BE PROUD OF YOURSELF!