Tips on Preparing for Race Day!!!

We have all been training for several months getting ready for the big race, whether it be a half-marathon or the full-marathon here are some things to keep in mind:


1. Don't buy new shoes just for the race, you do not know how they will fit and how comfortable they will be half way through. Take them out on several long runs before race day.

2. Don't try a new pre-run meal on the day of the race. Make sure you have eaten this meal before several runs, you want to insure that it will not cause gastrointestinal problems, or weigh you down. (I prefer 2 pieces of wheat toast with almond butter!)

3. Don't try a new form of electrolyte replacement on the day of the race. Many times electrolyte replacement companies will sponsor the race, offering their product before, during and after. Again, you don't know how it will affect your stomach, so I suggest sticking with methods you are familiar with. (I use Clif Shot Blocks)


4. "Carbo-load" the day before, but not RIGHT before! Yes, having a high carbohydrate meal for dinner the evening before the race is a good idea (but avoid things that are high in garlic, you will be burping it up the next day yuck!). But, do not have simple carbohydrates (pasta, white bread, white rice, processed) right before the race! Instead reach for something that is a low-glycemic index food. A good rule of thumb to remember is: Low-Glycemic index before cardio (running, biking, swimming etc), high-glycemic index before weight lifting, and high-glycemic index after both!

5. Wear your race outfit before the race. Give your race clothes a few trial runs before race day. You need to make sure that it doesn't constrict your movement, or cause chaffing.

6. Get plenty of sleep. Sounds obvious, but make sure you get plenty of sleep the day before the race. Most races start fairly early (7am or so) which means you need to be down there a good 30mins before that, which can be pretty early on a weekend. Go to bed early, well hydrated, and sober!